Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke has been ruled out of the World Cup.

The Belgian international faces at least six out of action after rupturing his Achilles tendon in what is major blow for his country as well as his club.

Aston Villa have confirmed that Benteke will face at least six months out.

He will be out for a minimum of six months. #AVFC

— Aston Villa FC (@AVFCOfficial) April 3, 2014

After an injury-interrupted first half to this season, Benteke had scored six times in 2014, adding to the 19 league goals that the 23-year-old netted last season.

Benteke would have vied with Everton loanee Romelu Lukaku for a starting spot at this summer's World Cup, with Belgium seen as dark horses.