Manchester United defender Raphael Varane will be concerned about potentially missing the World Cup after his injury against Chelsea, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The France international was withdrawn in the second half of United's 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge through injury.

What's the latest news involving Varane?

United continued their impressive recent form under Erik ten Hag's guidance, but the result came at a cost after Varane hobbled off after 59 minutes.

The £340,000 per-week ace landed awkwardly after a challenge with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and had to be replaced by Victor Lindelof.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

With the showpiece in Qatar now less than four weeks away, Varane was reduced to tears when he left the pitch, clearly worried about whether he'll be fit enough for the tournament in the Middle East.

When asked for an update, Ten Hag said: "We have to wait 24 hours and then we will know what [the injury] is.

"I can understand (his reaction), we can all probably understand he will be emotional, but he also has to wait, you don't know.

"He's experienced but the medics have to do their job, have to make an assessment, set the right diagnosis and from there on come to the conclusion."

France kick off their campaign on 22 November against Australia and O'Rourke reckons the former Real Madrid man will be concerned.

What did O'Rourke say about Varane?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "Personally, he will be worried that this injury could possibly keep him out of the World Cup with France next month."

Who could replace Varane in the starting XI?

Ten Hag does have three other centre backs at his disposal, although the obvious choice is Lindelof.

The Sweden international replaced Varane when he was forced off in west London and has started a couple of times in his absence already this season.

Harry Maguire, who's back in training following his own injury, will surely have something to say about a centre back spot being up for grabs, but Lindelof is the favourite to start in the Europa League on Thursday and against West Ham on Sunday.

As for Varane, the severity of his injury and whether he'll be fit for the World Cup will surely become clearer in the coming days, especially with Ten Hag set to address the press later today.