http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id...england&cc=4716

Van Persie visiting Serbian healer

Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie is set to try an unorthodox method of treatment in a desperate bid to speed up his recovery from an ankle injury.

The Dutchman will have placenta rubbed into the damaged area by a Serbian housewife who successfully healed a former Feyenoord team-mate Danzo Lazovic.

Van Persie is expected to fly out to Belgrade on Tuesday, with the backing of manager Arsene Wenger, to seek the services of Mariana Kovacevic - who has a reputation for drastically speeding up the recovery times of those she treats.

Lazovic, now of PSV, visited the housewife last month after suffering a hamstring injury that was expected to rule him out for five weeks. But after having the placenta fluid rubbed into the affected area, the Serbian striker returned to action after just one week out.

"She is vague about her methods but I know that she first massages you for a long time with placenta fluid," Van Persie said. "I am going to give it a try.

"It can't do any harm and if it helps, it helps. I've been in contact with Arsenal's chief physio about it. The club has allowed me to have this treatment done."

Van Persie, who ruptured ligaments in his right ankle during a friendly against Italy last weekend, decided to take drastic action after two separate doctors in Holland both told the striker he faces at least six weeks out.