Arsenal hero Martin Keown insists Alex Runarsson can still make it at the club.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta surprised many by borrowing Australia star Mat Ryan, 28, who this season has lost his regular Brighton place to Robert Sanchez.

But it was no shock Iceland keeper Runarsson has been ousted as second-choice after struggling when standing in for Bernd Leno.

In fact, the 25-year-old is tipped for a loan exit after only arriving in the summer following Emiliano Martinez's departure to Aston Villa.

But asked if Runarrson's Arsenal career was effectively over, Keown said: “I hope not

“He's only a young man and he wasn't ready for the opportunity.

“Lets hope he comes back much improved.

“(Bringing in Ryan) is a good adjustment; 49 caps for Australia, he's coming with good experience and that's what Arsenal need in the event that Leno gets injured at any point."