Shaaban faces a spell on the sidelines

Arsenal have been hit by the news reserve keeper Rami Shaaban has suffered a broken leg in training.

The 27-year-old fractured both the tibia and fibula in his right leg in a clash with a team-mate during training at Highbury on Tuesday.

He has already undergone surgery but is likely to be out for several months.

"It is a terrible blow for both Rami and the club as he has settled in well since joining Arsenal earlier in the season," said a club statement.

"The players were visibly upset following the incident as Rami is both a team-mate and a friend.

"Everyone's thoughts are with Rami and his family, especially over the Christmas period, and we wish him a full recovery."

Shaaban has been vying with 22-year-old goalkeeper Stuart Taylor to be deputy to first-choice stopper David Seaman.

With Taylor out of action after breaking a finger, 18-year-old Craig Holloway will be on the bench for the match against West Brom on Boxing Day.