Arsenal striker Robin van Persie and Fulham's Roy Hodgson have been named Barclays player and manager of the month for October respectively. Van Persie has scooped the award after an electrifying month that saw the 26-year old score five goals and set up another two as the Gunners went through the month unbeaten.

He notched up his first goal in the 6-2 demolition of Blackburn Rovers at the Emirates Stadium, drilling a low shot beyond Paul Robinson after fine work from Cesc Fabregas. This was then followed by the opening goal in the 3-1 win at home to Birmingham City.

The flying Dutchman was again instrumental in the 2-2 draw at West Ham, scoring the opener before delivering an inch-perfect corner for William Gallas to nod in a second for the Gunners.

Van Persie completed his impressive month by netting a brace in the 3-0 victory over North London rivals Tottenham, taking him to seven Premier League goals for the season.

This is the second time that he has won the award, having previously claimed the prize in November 2005.

The decision was made by the Barclays Awards Panel, which includes representatives from football's governing bodies, the media and fans.

Hodgson picked up October's gaffer gong after guiding the Cottagers through an unbeaten month despite a tricky fixture list.

His charges kicked off the month with a 2-2 draw at West Ham and were only denied three points by Hammers striker Junior Stanislas' last-gasp equaliser. This was followed by a comfortable 2-0 win at home to Hull City before the team came back from two goals down to secure an excellent draw away at Manchester City.

Fulham completed the month with a fine 3-1 victory over Liverpool, a win that saw the club move into mid-table and away from the relegation danger zone.

This is the third time Hodgson has won the award and comes almost 12 years since he last scooped the prize in December 1997, while manager of Blackburn Rovers. He also won the award in August 1997.