Sunderland manager David Moyes has confirmed that Fabio Borini is likely to miss three months of action due to a groin injury.
The Italian forward was injured during Saturday's 1-1 draw with Southampton, tearing an adductor muscle while taking a free kick at St Mary's.
Reports emerged earlier today that the injury could keep Borini sidelined until December, and Moyes has now confirmed that he will be without the 25-year-old for a large chunk of the season.
"Borini, we expect to be out for three months, that is a rough guide. There is a chance it could be a bit quicker," he told the Sunderland Echo.
"We are being told it is three months though, an adductor that came off the bone."
Borini is expected to miss at least 10 Premier League games while on the sidelines.