Barcelona have suffered another defensive blow as Thomas Vermaelen was forced off during Belgium’s 2-1 win over Switzerland on Friday night.

The 32-year-old started the game but was hauled off with 17 minutes remaining with what looked like a hamstring injury.

Barcelona will be hoping the problem is not too serious with Samuel Umtiti already sidelined with a knee injury.

If Vermaelen is out then it would leave just Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet as the Blaugrana’s only two fit centre-backs.

Ernesto Valverde’s side have some tough fixtures approaching after the international break, with a visit from league leaders Sevilla on October 20, followed by Inter Milan and Real Madrid.