Jonny Evans has insisted that Robin van Persie deserves a lot of the credit for Manchester United's success in the Premier League this season.

The Dutch striker scored a hat-trick during Monday evening's 3-0 win over Aston Villa at Old Trafford - a result that saw United win a 20th league title with four matches to spare.

Having arrived at the club from Arsenal last summer, the 29-year-old "lifted" the playing squad to produce the goods over the course of the campaign, claims Evans.

"It was great to see Robin get his goals on Monday. He's been absolutely fantastic this season. His work-rate and finishing ability are phenomenal. He wants to score goals and he's disappointed when he doesn't, even when we get the points," the Northern Ireland international told the club's official website.

"We're really happy to see him get his first winners' medal. He came here because of his respect for the philosophy of the club and it's paid off for him.

"He's lifted everyone at the club. He was captain of Arsenal and obviously a very mature person and very respectful guy. He's got a bit of an aura about him and has settled in brilliantly. You can tell by the way he plays and his whole demeanour that he is really enjoying things here."

Van Persie has scored 28 times for United, 24 of which have come in the Premier League.