Fast bowler Atkinson Compounds England's Injury Problems.
'Serious blow' for the touring side as Atkinson leaves the field suffering a hamstring problem.
Gus Atkinson increased the fitness woes of the England squad upon exiting the ground early on day two of the Boxing Day Test versus the Australians.
The pace bowler experienced discomfort in his hamstring post-delivery of the fourth over at the MCG.
The touring camp stated Atkinson felt some "soreness" and required time off the field to undergo evaluation "during the day".
The final Test of the series in Sydney gets underway this coming Sunday.
The English side has already lost key quicks Mark Wood to a knee injury and another paceman to a side strain on this Ashes tour.
A replacement bowler was called up as cover for Wood.
Atkinson struggled in the opening two Tests, taking just three wickets.
He was omitted from the previous Test, before being recalled for the fourth Test to fill the void.
Atkinson improved at the MCG, claiming a couple of wickets during the host's first knock, before adding 28 with the bat as one of just three England players to reach double figures.
Post a single over late on the first day, he returned for the second day's play and dismissed the nightwatchman taken by the wicketkeeper.
Yet, at the end of his spell, he delivered a slower ball to the batsman and promptly felt his left hamstring.
The English bowler was recalled for the fourth Ashes Test having missed of the third.