Robin van Persie has claimed Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor deliberately injured him during Arsenal's 4-2 defeat at Eastlands.

In a statement, Van Persie said he was "sad and disappointed" by Adebayor's "mindless and malicious stamp on me".

The Dutchman added: "He set out to hurt me today. I do feel lucky that I have not received a greater injury."

Adebayor caught Van Persie in the face with his right boot but says it was unintentional and claims he apologised.

"I was trying to kick the ball," Adebayor told Sky Sports. "I see him tackling and I don't have time to take my feet back because I'm trying to kick the ball.

"My feet touch his head. I feel sorry for him and even straight away, and at the end of the game, I said sorry."

However, Van Persie, 26, is adamant that the contact was deliberate....

Manchester City's Emmanuel Adebayor has been suspended for three matches for violent conduct following his side's win against Arsenal on 12 September.

The 25-year-old striker clashed with Robin van Persie during the second half of City's 4-2 home victory.

He misses Sunday's trip to Manchester United and home games against Fulham - in the Carling Cup - and West Ham.

Adebayor also faces an improper conduct charge for his goal celebration in front of the Arsenal supporters.

A separate date will be arranged for a commission to consider that charge, with City have until 30 September to respond.

The club decided against contesting Adebayor's violent conduct charge, enabling the Football Association to implement its fast-track disciplinary procedure.

The Togo international, a £25m summer signing from Arsenal, escaped punishment from referee Mark Clattenburg following his clash with Van Persie, which left the Dutchman with a cut to his face.