Van Persie faces season KO

[Elano]

ARSENE WENGER'S worst fears were realised last night as it was confirmed Robin Van Persie has torn ankle ligaments.

Arsenal's star striker could now be out for the ENTIRE season.

It is a crippling blow for boss Wenger's Premier League and Euro hopes.

Van Persie was left in agony 10 minutes into Holland's goalless friendly with Italy on Saturday after a challenge from Giorgio Chiellini.

He has scored seven league goals so far this season, leading the line for the in-form Gunners.

Van Persie, 26, was in Amsterdam last night undergoing scans as medics looked to rule out any fracture to the joint.

They have confirmed the ligaments are torn - though Van Persie remains optimistic. He said: "I am probably out for between four to six weeks."

Wenger said: "The footage doesn't look that bad but the seriousness of the injury does seem to be."

Arsenal are second in the table and Wenger will be hoping the loss of the Dutchman does not mirror striker Eduardo's situation from two seasons ago.

In February 2008 the Croatian broke his leg - and his absence led to them surrendering a place at the top of the table, as they finished third.

Striker Nicklas Bendtner is already out until the New Year after groin surgery and Wenger could be forced to spend in the January transfer window.

Marouane Chamakh tops his list but Wenger pulled out of an £8m August move for the Moroccan. French side Bordeaux will force the price up for a mid-season move.
Van Persie' list of pain

ROBIN VAN PERSIE is no stranger to injury.

JAN 2006: Breaks toe against Cardiff in the FA Cup. Month out.

JAN 2007: Fractured a metatarsal celebrating against Man Utd. Out for rest of season.

OCT '07: Twisted knee on international duty. Returns in December.

DEC '07: Knee problem causes more trouble. Two months out.

Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2731068/Arsenes-hopes-torn-to-pieces.html#ixzz0X0GhAcJ6

[Mac 10 †]

Good player, loves a dive.

Not good news for Arsenal who were shaping up nicely.

[Invincible]

He's only out for 4-6 weeks.