Arsenal's Petr Cech reveals he wants to stop wearing his helmet - but doctors won't let him

Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech has revealed that he wants to start playing without his protective helmet but has been banned from doing so by doctors.

The 33-year-old has worn the headgear since he suffered a fractured skull while playing for Chelsea against Reading in 2006.

Cech was ruled out of action for three months as a result of the injury, which required an operation to insert two metal plates into his head, but has successfully returned to compete at the highest level.

The Czech Republic international is now keen to play without the added protection but is unable to for insurance reasons - even though it affects his hearing during games.

"I would be more confident if I had it off," he admitted.

"If you like it or not, the helmet affects your surroundings.

"You have your ears covered and it makes hearing worse.

"But the doctor has forbidden me to take off the helmet.

"If I did, I would not get insurance."

Cech has kept six clean sheets in 12 Premier League appearances this season.