Derby County's versatile defender Krystian Bielik has suffered an injury scare whilst on international duty with Poland, with the 21-year-old reportedly picking up a thigh problem ahead of his country's game against Latvia.

Bielik, who has made a promising start to his Derby career since joining from Arsenal in the summer, was forced to pull out of Poland's training session on Wednesday due to a thigh problem, as his country prepare to take on Latvia in a Euro 2020 qualifier.

That will be concerning news for Derby boss Phillip Cocu, who will be hoping that none of his international players suffer any injuries whilst they are away this week - and Bielik will be a key part of the Dutchman's plans when the Rams return to training following the end of the international break.

Poland national team spokesman Jakub Kwiatkowski has told reporters, via sport.tvp.pl, that Bielik has suffered a muscle injury and will be assessed before Poland's game against Latvia, saying "It's a muscle bruise. On Thursday, it will be clear if the player will be able to play."

The Verdict

This latest news on Bielik picking up a thigh problem will be concerning to Derby supporters, with the 21-year-old's versatility allowing him to play in both the centre of defence and in midfield, which will be vital for the Rams given the recent injury troubles that Cocu's side have faced.

Bielik has made an encouraging start to his time at Pride Park, showing his quality and composure in possession as well as his ability to read the game and prevent opponents from creating opportunities.

The 21-year-old will be one of the first names on Cocu's team sheet during the rest of the campaign, making it vital that he recovers from this latest injury swiftly - and Derby will be hoping that Bielik is not risked by Poland, if he is not fully fit, to avoid him suffering any major issues that would keep him out of action for the Rams.