OXFORD United have been hit by the news one of their new signings has suffered a serious knee injury.

Ivo Pekalski only signed for the club on Tuesday, joining from Swedish top-flight side Halmstad for an undisclosed fee.

But the 26-year-old, who had fitness problems earlier in his career, damaged knee ligaments in what is believed to have been his first training session with the U’s.

More detail is expected to follow from manager Pep Clotet after today’s game with Portsmouth, but it is understood the midfielder is expected to be ruled out until the new year.

Writing in his programme notes, the U's boss said: "Ivo Pekalski got injured in a very unfortunate training ground incident which is set to sideline him for a while.

"It's a real shame because he's a talented player who had successfully come through a medical, was in very good shape and looking forward to playing his part."

It is the second injury setback in quick succession for the squad, following Charlie Raglan.

The centre back is due to have an operation on Monday after damaging ankle ligaments in training and is likely to be on the sidelines for between three and four months.