Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confessed three points against Wolves would bring him more festive cheer than watching Robin van Persie break the Premier League record for most goals scored in a calendar year.
The Dutch goalscorer has been in incredible form of late, and is only two goals shy of equalling Alan Shearer’s record of 36 strikes over the 12 month period.
However, Wenger insisted seeing his 28-year-old star striker enter the record books played second fiddle to ensuring a win at the Emirates Stadium in their clash with Mick McCarthy’s side on Tuesday.
The Frenchman told reporters: “Robin is the leader and the most important thing is that the team wins.
“The individual records are not vital for me, they are just a sign that the team scores.
“He is an exceptional player, but what is important is that we win our games this Christmas and if we combine both to help him score then we will be even happier.”
The Gunners coach has no reason to believe the Dutch international cannot have an equally outstanding 2012, providing he avoids injury.
“In sport you always have that target, to be better than what you have done before,” Wenger added.
“The difference is the [lack of] injuries and it just shows how important it is to have a consistent presence at the top level.
“It’s impossible nowadays with the intensity of the games to be in and out and be at your [best].
“It doesn’t work and what has been the difference for Robin is just that he has been capable of playing the games.”