Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski's layoff pushed back to December

The German national team have announced that Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski is expected to be out of action until December.

The 28-year-old was initially ruled out for eight to 10 weeks after suffering a hamstring injury during the Gunners' 2-0 win over Fenerbahce in the Champions League qualifier last week.

However, Germany's team doctor has revealed that Podolski's injury is worse than first thought, and a three-month layoff is a realistic assessment, according to Sky Sports News.

The news is a blow to Arsenal, who smashed their transfer record by signing Real Madrid midfielder Mesut Ozil for a reported £42.5m.