London, Sep 13 (DPA) Arsenal striker Robin van Persie says former team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor set out to hurt him when the two clashed during the match at Manchester City.

City won the game 4-2 with former Arsenal striker Adebayor on the scoresheet for his new club.

Adebayor prompted anger from the Arsenal fans with his over-the-top celebrations after his goal, but of bigger concern was the way he lashed out at Van Persie, causing a cut on the left side of his face.

'I am sad and disappointed by my former team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor's mindless and malicious stamp on me during today's match,' Van Persie said in a statement.

'He set out to hurt me today. I do feel lucky that I have not received a greater injury.

'I knew he was aiming for a collision because he changed the angle of his body to allow contact to be made.