Arsenal hit by Van Persie injury

Arsenal's Robin van Persie is set for a lengthy spell out after suffering suspected ankle ligament damage while playing for the Netherlands.

The 26-year-old striker was stretchered off after 10 minutes of his country's friendly against Italy in Pescara.

Van Persie held his right ankle after a robust tackle by Giorgio Chiellini and was flown to hospital for treatment.

"We think it's ligaments but will know later on Sunday," a Dutch Football Association official told BBC Sport.

"The medical staff were not talking about a break of the bone but the doctors will be able to tell us for sure. It didn't look too good."

Chiellini's challenge left Van Persie rolling around in agony and reports in Holland suggested he has ruptured ankle ligaments.

It is believed he will be examined in Amsterdam on Sunday by renowned ankle specialist Professor Niek van Dijk, who has previously treated Critiano Ronaldo, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Michael Owen.

"The first diagnosis is a bad ankle injury. We are waiting for X-rays in hospital. It's terrible for Robin and is not good for Holland or his club," said Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk after the game.

Van Persie is Arsenal's second-highest scorer this season with eight goals, one behind skipper Cesc Fabregas.

All of his goals have come in the last 11 games as the former Feyenoord forward helped propel Arsenal to within five points of Premier League leaders Chelsea with a game in hand.

His absence leaves the Gunners short up front, with fellow forward Nicklas Bendtner sidelined until mid-December following minor groin surgery.

Arsenal are also currently without the injured Gael Clichy, Theo Walcott and Denilson.

Any lengthy absence for Van Persie will also be felt by the Dutch as they prepare for the 2010 World Cup.
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**** the Internationals !

He is out for 4-6 weeks