Albion are about to lose Mathew Ryan to international duty with Australia.

But it is unclear how many matches their ever-present Premier League No.1 will miss.

Ryan's place has been confirmed in the Socceroos' 23-man squad for the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates next month.

Graham Arnold's group get together on Boxing Day to prepare for the tournament.

That is when Albion host Arsenal at the Amex (5.15), followed by the visit of Everton three days later.

Ryan, who has made 55 unbroken Premier League appearances since signing from Valencia in the summer of 2017, may have received special dispensation to link up later.

Albion boss Chris Hughton is keeping his cards close to his chest over exactly when he loses Ryan.

Hughton joked when asked by The Argus: "I know but you don't! Which means I cannot tell you."

After Everton, Albion visit West Ham on January 2, Bournemouth in the third round of the FA Cup on January 5.

They entertain Liverpool on January 12, go to Manchester United on January 19, have a potential FA Cup fourth round tie on January 26 and are away to Fulham on January 29.

On February 2 they are at home to Watford.

The Asian Cup starts on January 5 and finishes on February 1.

Australia have group games against Jordan in Al Ain on January 6, Palestine in Dubai on January 11 and Syria in Al Ain on January 15.

Australia are the holders of the Asian Cup and are expected to mount a strong defence of the trophy, which could stretch the period of Ryan's absence.

David Button and Jason Steele are vying to deputise between the posts.

Albion will also lose Iranian winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh to the Asian Cup.