England suffer injury blow as John Stones goes off against Germany

England were dealt an injury blow in the first half of their Nations League clash with Germany as John Stones was forced off with an apparent hamstring problem.

Stones started a counter-attack for Gareth Southgate's side by making an interception on the edge of his own penalty box and then looked to get up the pitch but quickly pulled up clutching the back of his leg.

He was attended to by England's medical team, but was not able to take any further part in the match as he hobbled off in the 37th minute to be replaced by Kyle Walker.

The 28-year-old looked understandably distraught as he came off the pitch after his only appearance of the international break was cut short. He was suspended for England's defeat against Italy on Friday after getting sent off against Hungary in June.

Stones has become a crucial part of Gareth Southgate's squad in recent years, starring at the last two major tournaments for the Three Lions.

He has established himself in the starting XI, and would be expected to play a major role at the World Cup later this year if he is fit.

With this in mind, Southgate will be hoping that Stones' setback is just a minor one and does not put his spot on the plane to Qatar in jeopardy, with the tournament less than two months away.

Manchester City will also be sweating on the news of Stones' injury following his early substitution at Wembley.

The defender has appeared in seven matches for Pep Guardiola's side this term, and has proved his versatility by filling in for Kyle Walker at right-back on multiple occasions.

He has also chipped in with two assists in the Premier League, plus a stunning goal in the Champions League against Borussia Dortmund to prove that he can be a threat in both boxes.