Marchisio withdraws from Italy squad with groin injury; Gagliardini called up

Juventus announced Thursday that Claudio Marchisio was forced to withdraw from the Italian national squad after suffering a groin injury during Wednesday's win over Uruguay.

Inter Milan midfielder Roberto Gagliardini has been called up to take Marchisio's place ahead of Italy's World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein.

Juventus described the injury as a minor groin strain, but the team did not disclose how long it may take the 31-year-old to overcome the injury.

A statement on the team's website read: "Claudio Marchisio has undergone medical tests today which reveal a mild groin strain in his right leg.

"The midfielder was prematurely withdrawn after 19 minutes in Wednesday night's international friendly fixture between Italy and Uruguay at the Allianz Riviera in Nice. "

Italy will look to remain unbeaten during Sunday's encounter with last-place Liechtenstein at the Dacia Arena in Udine. Spain and Italy are tied atop Group G with 13 points each after five matches.