Former Manchester United forward Robin van Persie has vowed to remain positive, despite a tough start to life in Turkey.

Van Persie Hating Life In Turkey?

The 32-year-old seems to have fallen from grace recently – first, he was told he was no longer needed at Manchester United, and then he was stripped of the Netherlands captaincy a month or so later. Since joining Fenerbahce, he has found himself often sitting on the bench for club and country too.

Van Persie insists he will not let this bad slump get to him and also paid tribute to a former teammate for teaching him how to handle these situations.

"I don't let anything get to me," said Van Persie. "Mentally, I'm stronger than ever.

"When you're young, you don't know how to deal with situations like this.

"But let me explain who my guide to a great balance in life was. Patrick Vieira showed me how to stay mentally strong and cope with all pressures.  

"My first season at Arsenal was Patrick's last. There were lots of stories about him going to Real Madrid. There was so much happening around this guy, it was incredible. And yet he was a tower of strength and an icon of calmness.

"He just remained our natural leader. Nothing could affect him. He was totally in balance, he was on top of everything and felt he could master it all.

"As a young player, I was completely in awe of him. I admired that mental strength in him. And I think everybody else did."

Van Gaal Reveals Reason Behind Man Utd Success

The striker is the Netherlands' all-time leading scorer with 49 goals, and won his 100th cap for his country on Saturday.

Do you think Van Persie made a poor career choice by moving to Turkey? Have your say in the comments section below.