Aston Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland has ruptured his Achilles

Aston Villa have been dealt a blow after goalkeeper Orjan Nyland ruptured his Achilles during a training session.

The 28-year-old could miss the remainder of the season as a result.

The Norway international has featured as first choice in goal for Villa this season as they look to push for promotion back to the Premiership.

Villa are currently ninth in the Championship after 25 games played - 14 points off league leaders Leeds United.

The club have goalkeepers Andre Moreira and Mark Bunn to call upon in their squad, while Jed Steer is on loan at Charlton Athletic.

Head coach Dean Smith had previously outlined his intentions to add to the squad during the January transfer window, with Croatia international goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic arriving next month.

"He is one that has been on the radar for the last three or four weeks, so really pleased to have got him in," Smith said.

"He is the Croatia number-one goalkeeper at the moment and one that we have targeted - and thankfully Jesus (Garcia Pitarch, Sporting Director) has got the deal done."