Chelsea's goalkeeper Petr Cech would be out of action for "three to four weeks" after suffering a calf injury during Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League loss away to Italy's Inter Milan, said the English premier league club on Thursday.

The Czech veteran was taken off on a stretcher during the second half at the San Siro after damaging his calf fielding a cross and was replaced by Henrique Hilario.

Cech's absence is a blow to Premier League leaders Chelsea, also vying for the Champions League and FA Cup trophies.

He will now miss Saturday's league clash with Manchester City at Stamford Bridge and the last-16 second-leg tie against Inter on March 16.

"Chelsea Football Club can confirm scans show Petr Cech suffered a tear in a calf muscle during the second half against Inter, and he is expected to be out for three to four weeks". said Chelsea in a statement.

Cech was withdrawn earlier on Thursday from the Czech squad for next week's friendly international away to Scotland.