Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini will miss the first leg of the Italian club's UEFA Europa League round of 16 tie with Fulham FC on Thursday but could be back for next week's return in London after a scan showed his left thigh injury is less serious than feared.

The 25-year-old suffered the injury during the 2-1 victory at ACF Fiorentina on Saturday, but tests revealed no serious damage to the muscles. The Italy centre-back, who has contested 25 games in Serie A and six in Europe this term with the Bianconeri, will be sidelined for about a week. Nicola Legrottaglie is expected to deputise against Fulham in Turin. "The UEFA Europa League is a great competition and to go all the way would be a great boost for the whole club," said Legrottaglie.