SEAN Rigg is expected to be out until October after scans confirmed the Oxford United winger tore a hamstring last weekend.

The 24-year-old pulled up clutching the back of his leg after sprinting for a ball during the first half of United’s 3-1 win at Torquay United.

He was immediately substituted and treated, but results of a more detailed diagnosis received yesterday revealed the extent of the damage.

A lay-off of six to eight weeks will be required, slightly longer than initially predicted, meaning tomorrow’s game against Wycombe Wanderers will be the first of up to nine matches that Rigg is expected to miss.

U’s boss Chris Wilder said: “Sean has been part of how we’ve started the season on the front foot, so to lose a player that gives us something a bit different is disappointing.

“He’ll do his rehab and we’ll welcome him back when he’s right, but you can’t rush those sorts of injuries at all.”

It will force a change in the starting line-up against Wycombe, but the hosts do have a variety of alternatives.

Callum O’Dowda is the closest like-for-like replacement, but the teenager may not be ready for a run in the side.

Asa Hall replaced Rigg at Torquay and sealed victory with a goal, which boosted his chances, although that may require a change of formation.

Wilder said: “We could change the shape, we have done in the past.

“Alfie (Potter) can play out there, Ryan Williams might be an option, as could Danny (Rose). “There are a few options, so it’s not bare bones time.”