Arsenal star Van Persie faces lengthy lay-off

Robin van Persie faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after reportedly damaging ankle ligaments during the Netherlands’ 0-0 friendly draw with Italy, the Dutch press reported on Sunday.

The Arsenal striker was stretched off the pitch after being tackled by Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini 14 minutes into the game at Pescara.

Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk believes the player has torn ligaments, which the ANP news agency estimated could sideline the player for weeks or even months.

“It’s a hard blow for him because he was in the form of his life,” said van Marwijk.

A spokesman for the Dutch FA told the BBC: “The ankle ligaments are definitely torn.

“After the match our medical staff did not mention a break in the bone but the doctors will be able to tell us for sure. It does not look too good.”