CENTRE Ben Te'o faces 12 weeks on the sidelines with an ankle injury, according to Worcester Warriors.

The Aviva Premiership outfit have confirmed the 30-year-old sustained a "high-grade syndesmosis injury" in Warriors' 30-20 victory over Brive in the European Challenge Cup earlier this month.

It means Te'o will miss England's autumn internationals and a chunk of Worcester's season.

Head coach Carl Hogg said Warriors were "upset" to lose Te'o who has made six appearances for the club after making a big impact during the British and Irish Lions' tour of New Zealand this summer.

"It is a big blow for Ben," Hogg said. 

"He performed tremendously well in the summer and was one of the stand out players for the Lions.

"It was great to have him back on board with us, so it’s unfortunate for him (that he has picked up the injury) especially going into that international window.

"I think Ben would have been involved with England as he does gives you a point of difference in that midfield.

"He is a direct runner and he can get beyond a tackle and get his arm free, so I think he has got something very unique compared to the midfield players he is competing against.

"It is disappointing for Ben, but part and parcel of the sport.

"We are upset as a side to lose him so hopefully we can get him back as soon as possible."