Arsenal chief Edu has explained their surprise swoop for Brighton goalkeeper Mat Ryan.

Ryan has joined the Gunners on-loan to the end of the season.

Edu said, “Mat is an experienced goalkeeper, a proven talent in the Premier League and has also played many internationals for Australia.

“Mat will further strengthen our squad with his experience and knowledge of playing at the highest level.

"Following Matt Macey's recent move to Hibernian, Mat will provide very good competition and positive support to all our goalkeepers and we are looking forward to him integrating quickly into the set-up here at Arsenal."

Gunners manager Mikel Arteta also stated, "We know Mat very well through his performances with Brighton in recent seasons and he brings additional quality to our squad.

“Mat has very good Premier League experience and has played over 100 times in the league, which is something that will benefit us greatly on and off the pitch.

“We welcome Mat to Arsenal and look forward to working with him this season."