Chelsea have placed an estimated six-week timeframe on Cole Palmer's return, with Enzo Maresca conceding his star playmaker is in line to miss several significant matches for the Blues.
It is hoped that Palmer could yet return for the end of November, which is when they will face Barcelona in the Champions League on the 25th and Arsenal in the Premier League on the 30th.
Palmer is struggling with a strained groin issue which the club are giving time to heal. The 23-year-old has been in Dubai over the international break rather than in London.