Sunderland's Paddy McNair faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament.

The former Manchester United man suffered the injury after 42 minutes of Saturday's win over Hull City while closing down Curtis Davis on the edge of his own penalty area.

However, he played on until the 88th minute when Donald Love eventually came on to replace him.

"Paddy McNair has been ruled out of action after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament," a statement on the club's official website read.

"He now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines but will now focus on returning to action as quickly as possible."

The Northern Ireland international joined Sunderland from Manchester United in the summer for a fee of £5.5million, linking up with former United boss David Moyes.

Before his injury, McNair made 12 appearances in all competitions for his new club, scoring twice.