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Published: Monday November 16, 2009 MYT 4:34:00 PM

Arsenal’s Van Persie out for up to six weeks

LONDON: Arsenal striker Robin van Persie expects to be out for up to six weeks after tests in Holland confirmed that he tore ankle ligaments after a robust challenge from Giorgio Chiellini during a friendly between the Netherlands and Italy on Saturday night.

The game ended 0-0.

“I have had a scan. I am probably out for between four and six weeks,” Van Persie told Dutch television program Studio Voetbal on Sunday night.

But the in-form 26-year-old absolved Juventus defender Chiellini of blame, saying: “There was no intent.” Van Persie’s absence could seriously undermine Arsenal’s bid to catch Chelsea at the top of the Premier League.

In 11 league games this season, Van Persie has scored seven goals and contributed to seven more in Arsenal’s impressive surge up the standings. Although the Gunners are five points behind Chelsea in second place, they have a game in hand and host the Blues on Nov. 29.

Van Persie’s absence is a major blow for the club, especially with striker Nicklas Bendtner sidelined until mid-December after minor groin surgery and Theo Walcott hampered by a knee ligament problem. - AP

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