Van Persie keeps hot streak alive by scoring twice to sink Southampton

Criticized earlier in the season, Dutch striker Robin van Persie's revival continued as he scored twice in a 2-1 victory at Southampton on Monday, moving Manchester United to third in the Premier League.

After last month's 2-1 win against Arsenal, manager Louis van Gaal said his compatriot was lacking confidence and was making little impact on matches after a poor return, by his own standards, of just three goals in 11 games.