Juventus lose Howedes until 2018 as injury woes continue

The World Cup-winning defender will be sidelined for several weeks, while Mario Mandzukic is a doubt for the Champions League trip to Olympiakos.

are likely to be without the services of international Benedikt Howedes until the new year, the club has confirmed.

The defender has torn a muscle in his right thigh in a continuation of his frustrating start to life in Turin.

On loan from , the 29-year-old has appeared only once in as he battles persistent injuries.

Howedes missed Friday's crucial 1-0 win at leaders , which saw Juve close the gap at the top to a single point.

The Bianconeri now turn their attention to sealing a place in the knockout stages, which they can do with a win away to on Tuesday.

forward Mario Mandzukic is a doubt for the trip to Athens after picking up a calf problem in training.