Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been cleared of a serious head injury after being substituted during the 2-0 Premier League victory over Arsenal on Sunday. The 22-year-old Belgian was forced off the pitch following an early clash with Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez and he was replaced by Petr Cech.

“Chelsea Football Club can confirm Thibaut Courtois went to hospital during our Premier League game against Arsenal yesterday for precautionary tests on a head injury. Those tests came back all clear,” Chelsea said. “Thibaut was treated for a minor cut to his ear and was released from hospital last night. He is expected to report for international duty later this week.”

The Premier League introduced new regulations to deal with head injuries following an incident last season in which Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris remained on the pitch after losing consciousness during a game against Everton.

“Thanks for all the messages! I’m already feeling better,” Courtois said on Twitter. “Now I’m resting to be recovered and back on the pitch soon. Great victory yesterday.”

Ramos hopeful

MADRID: Spain centre back Sergio Ramos is optimistic he’ll be able to play a part in this week’s Euro 2016 qualifiers away to Macedonia and Luxembourg despite being forced off in Real Madrid’s La Liga match on Sunday. Ramos had to be replaced at halftime during Real’s 5-0 win at home to Athletic Bilbao and Real coach Carlo Ancelotti said the player had felt discomfort in a calf muscle. “I am optimistic about the medical tests,” Ramos said. “I want to be involved in everything with the national team.” Ramos would be first choice in central defence if Spain look to follow up their 5-1 success at home to Macedonia in their opening Group C match.