Ljungberg accused Arsenal of lacking ambition in the wake of his move to West Ham, citing the departure of Thierry Henry and van Persie admits his comments were not well received in the Emirates Stadium dressing room.

"If you play nine years at a club like Arsenal you can say some nice words," he told the News of the World. If you're coming up with excuses about Thierry's departure and about promises from the club it's a bit weak."

The Dutchman added: "I was disappointed and I know a few others were as well. He had a fantastic period, he was once the best player in England, so come on and say some nice things for this club, which is fantastic."