Robin van Persie Lavishes Praise on Young Dutch Duo Jordy Clasie and Bruno Martins Indi

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has lavished praise on Feyenoord duo Jordy Clasie and Bruno Martins Indi after both were linked with following Louis van Gaal to Old Trafford.

Van Gaal's appointment is likely to spark significant changes in the United squad after the club recorded their worst ever Premier League campaign last season.

Somewhat inevitably, the club have been linked with a number of young talents working under Van Gaal in the Dutch national team, a post the 62 year old will step down from following the conclusion of the World Cup.

Central midfielder Clasie and centre half Martins Indi, both 22, are both reportedly wanted by van Gaal as part of his efforts to re-establish United among the Premier League elite. The young duo are currently part of the coach's provisional squad ahead of Netherlands group opener against holders Spain on 14 June and Van Persie has backed both to continue to inspire.

"I was not born smart, but I developed myself by keeping my eyes open," van Persie said, Voetbal Primeur report. "They have qualities. I've received many beautiful balls in my career but that ball from Clasie against Ecuador (in a recent World Cup warm up match) was definitely one of the nicest.

"And we you see, for example, how Bruno Martins Indi makes himself available, how he receives balls, how he passes and looks around him. Compared to last year there is a world of difference."

Netherlands skipper van Persie is in line to be named the new Manchester United captain following the departure of Nemanja Vidic this summer when van Gaal assumes control.

The former Arsenal star is relishing the opportunity to link up with his national team coach on a day to day basis, but has warned his teammates his arrival will also bring a new found intensity to their training sessions.

"I have never had a relationship with a coach like I have with van Gaal, it's very special," van Persie was quoted as saying by the Sun.

"Every training session is intense. He is on our backs every minute. There is no space to relax, he demands full focus.

"We work very hard for a maximum one hour, 15 minutes, never longer. But these 75 minutes are enormously intense."