The Republic of Ireland international suffered the injury in Sunday's 1-0 Premier League defeat against former club Manchester City.

Dunne fell heavily after challenging England goalkeeper Joe Hart for a cross and is set to undergo surgery.

"He will undergo an operation in Birmingham. It is anticipated that he will be sidelined for up to eight weeks," a club statement confirmed.

In better news for Villa, Australian defender Chris Herd has returned to full training after overcoming an ankle ligament injury.