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.