Arsenal striker Robin van Persie sustained a serious ankle injury.

Van Persie was rushed to hospital after just 12 minutes of the friendly match against Italy, when he collapsed to the ground after a heavy challenge from Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini. Holland coach Bert van Marwijk said: 'I was shocked when I saw it. It doesn't look good. I feel very sad for Robin and Arsenal.'

Van Persie could have ruptured ligaments in his ankle, an injury that would keep him out for at least three months. But if ankle is broken, the star could miss the rest of the season.

Van Persie has scored eight goals for Arsenal in this campaign and that is why the Gunners are currently in second place behind Chelsea. But that dream for Premiership title looked in ruins when the striker screamed in agony as he was carried from the pitch on a stretcher.

Arsene Wenger has other injury worries - he lost left-back Gael Clichy with a back injury, while Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner also picked up knocks.