John Stones is set for a spell on the sidelines after Inter confirmed the England centre-back has sustained a strain in his left thigh.

The experienced defender was making his first start for the Nerazzurri in Monday's contest with Udinese, which Inter won 5-3 in an eight-goal thriller.

However, the former Manchester City defender went off in the 62nd minute, with Benjamin Pavard coming on his place.

An official Inter statement read: "John Stones underwent clinical and diagnostic tests this morning at the Istituto Humanitas in Rozzano.

"The tests revealed a muscle strain to the flexor muscles in his left thigh. 

"His condition will be reassessed over the coming days."

While Inter did not put a timeframe on his recovery, some reports are suggesting that Stone will be sidelined for at least a month.

If that were to be the case, it may not be overly negative news for Inter, who visit Roma on Saturday but then have a three-week break due to the international window.

It is worse news for England, though, who would be without Stones for the start of their Nations League campaign.