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Arsenal confirm length of van Persie absence

Arsenal have confirmed striker Robin van Persie will be out of action for "approximately six weeks" after suffering ankle ligament damage during Holland's international friendly against Italy on Saturday. The 26 year old will return to London later this week to continue his rehabilitation but is set to miss key clashes with Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea at the end of the month, the trip to Liverpool on December 13 as well as the rest of the hectic Christmas schedule.

A club statement from Arsenal read: "Following the care given to van Persie by the Dutch FA, he will travel back to London this week and continue his treatment with the Arsenal medical team at London Colney.

"Van Persie will be out of action for approximately six weeks." Van Persie had also suggested he would be out for the best part of two months.

"I have had a scan. I am probably out for between four and six weeks," he told Dutch television programme Studio Voetbal..

However, the striker did absolve Juventus defender Chiellini of blame, adding: "There was no intent."

 Click here for more Arsenal news and comment from Arsene Wenger

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