It was just a friendly but Arsenal fans won’t be in an affable disposition with news Dutch striker Robin van Persie will be sidelined for the rest of the year after suffering ankle ligament damage in the Netherland’s clash with Italy on Saturday.

A statement from Arsenal said the 26-year-old forward has been ruled out of action for “approximately six weeks.”

While upset, because on the surface a nil-all friendly doesn’t seem worth it, Arsenal will have to get on with it quickly as they are in a premiership title race. But I would argue for the Oranje, any result with the defending World Cup champions, is crucial in their lead-up to South Africa next year.

The Gunners faithful can’t complain about their striker’s time on the field – Van Persie only managed 10 minutes on the pitch before being stretchered off following a challenge by Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during the 0-0 draw.
It is an unfortunate incident but the fragile Dutchman could have just as easily picked up a knock on the training track or while getting into his black Ferrari. Although the Gunners pay the big bucks, they can’t wrap the World-Cup bound striker in cotton wool.

Van Persie, who is a league equal fourth in leading goalscorers with seven, will be sorely missed, particularly as back-up frontman Nicklas Bendtner is also currently sidelined by a groin injury. Gunners manager Arsene Wenger will be forced to rely heavily on Brazilian-born Croatia striker Eduardo.

Among the games van Persie will miss is the likely top-of-the table clash with Premier League leaders Chelsea on November 29. The derby will have plenty going for it but may be missing some top talent, as Chelsea has injury problems of its own following the international break.

Frank Lampard (thigh injury) will definitely miss the Arsenal match while skipper John Terry is hoping to recover more quickly from the Achilles injury he suffered on duty with England in Qatar last week. Defenders Ashley Cole and Jose Bosingwa are also on the injury list.