Springbok loose forward Willem Alberts has sustained a suspected torn bicep while playing for Stade Français and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Alberts suffered the injury during Saturday's 50-17 European Champions Cup victory over Treviso, and could be out for up to three months.

The former Sharks flank joined up with the Top 14 side after the World Cup, but is now set to miss a large part of the European season.

Although Alberts should be back well in time for consideration for the Boks’ mid-year Tests in 2016, this another blow for the 31-year-old, who has endured an injury-plagued year.

Photo: L'Équipe