The Dutch Football Association have confirmed Arsenal's worst fears by revealing Robin van Persie has definitely torn ankle ligaments.

Van Persie was stretchered from the field just 10 minutes into Holland's international friendly with Italy on Saturday evening following a robust challenge from Azzurri centre-half Giorgio Chiellini.

He was immediately rushed to hospital for treatment, with Arsenal anxiously awaiting to learn the seriousness of the situation.

Dutch national coach Bert van Marwijk conceded the situation did not look good, and now ligament damage has been confirmed.

"The ankle ligaments are definitely torn," confirmed a Dutch FA spokesman. "After the match our medical staff did not mention a break in the bone but the doctors will be able to tell us for sure. It does not look too good."