Report: Arsenal's Bellerin out for the season with ruptured ACL

It's the news Arsenal fans feared.

Gunners full-back Hector Bellerin tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Saturday's win over Chelsea, the Guardian's David Hytner reports, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

Bellerin could even miss the start of the 2019-20 campaign if scans reveal further damage to the joint.

The 23-year-old had only returned to starting lineup after recovering from a calf issue. He celebrated both of Arsenal's goals before suffering the non-contact injury in the 70th minute. A hush swept over the Emirates as team medics rushed over with a stretcher, all but confirming the seriousness of the situation.

It remains to be seen whether the club will sanction a move for a replacement before the end of the January window. Manager Unai Emery said earlier in the month that Arsenal were restricted to loan signings only.

Stephan Lichtsteiner - who's yet to convince since joining on a free transfer last summer - and Carl Jenkinson are the only other natural right-backs in Emery's squad. Ainsley Maitland-Niles can also adapt himself to the role.

Bellerin joins teammates Danny Welbeck and Rob Holding on the long-term injury list. Holding also ruptured his ACL in a Premier League match against Manchester United in December.