A new preview picture of Karen Gillan in Guardians of the Galaxy has been released, Digital Spy said.

The former Doctor Who star will play Nebula, an alien adversary to the titular superhero team, in Marvel's forthcoming blockbuster.

Guardians director James Gunn premiered the still on his Facebook page, revealing that the character has been created without the use of CGI.

"High Res Nebula. Every dude in the editorial office is in love with her. And, yes, she's one hundred percent practical effects!" Gunn wrote.

Gillan shaved her head for the role, with her hair being refashioned as a wig for Star Wars Episode VII.

Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Benicio Del Toro, Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Peter Serafinowicz and Glenn Close will also feature in the comic book movie.

Guardians of the Galaxy is released on August 1 in the UK and the US.