James Anderson has claimed that England have been handed a boost with the news that Pakistan batsman Azhar Ali will miss the first Test due to a foot problem.

An infection in Ali's foot has prevented him from training with the rest of the squad ahead of the opening day on Tuesday in the three-Test series and it remains unclear whether he will return for the second Test.

The 30-year-old averaged above 50 when Pakistan recorded a 3-0 triumph on England's last trip to the UAE and Anderson believes that his absence is a big blow for the hosts.

"He obviously played very well last time," the seamer told reporters. "In that number three spot, he was the guy to get out for them - even with the experienced players who came in after him.

"I thought he was the key wicket for us (in 2012). So obviously, he will be a big miss for them.

"But they've got other quality players who've got plenty of runs out here. So there's plenty of other players we've got to watch out for."

England have suffered an injury setback in their own preparations after Steven Finn was ruled out of the first Test.