Roberto Mancini backtracks on Robin van Persie remarks

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has denied expressing interest in Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.

The Italian coach hinted this week that the Premier League leaders are keeping an eye on the prolific Dutchman, who has yet to commit to a new deal at the Emirates.

"I never said that we want to buy Robin van Persie," Mancini said to Sky Sports News. "Some journalist asked me about him, and I said we are interested in all good players but also that I think he will stay at Arsenal for a long time, because Van Persie for them is the best player."

Meanwhile, the North West club may be forced to endure a fortnight without skipper Vincent Kompany, who picked up a calf injury during City's 1-0 defeat to Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League round of 16 last night.