Chelsea warned over Cole Palmer injury after Enzo Maresca admission

Chelsea have been warned that Cole Palmer's groin injury could keep him on the sidelines for longer than expected.

Enzo Maresca confirmed that Palmer will be absent for a further six weeks on Friday as he battles to return to fitness.

The 23-year-old has been unavailable for the Blues since September 20, with the groin issue continuing to hamper his recovery.

• Why Enzo Fernandez isn't in Chelsea squad vs Nottingham Forest as absence explained
• Pedro Neto's 'aggressive' dressing room instruction to Chelsea star comes to light

The England star was once again missing as Chelsea secured a 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Saturday and his return remains uncertain as he struggles to shake off a complaint that first surfaced during the Club World Cup in the summer.

Whilst Maresca has already prepared Chelsea supporters for Palmer's prolonged absence, Glenn Hoddle has issued a stark warning that groin injuries can prove particularly problematic, suggesting the former Manchester City talent could be out for an even lengthier period, reports the Mirror.

"He is a top quality player, he is one England will be talking about for being the no10 when he is 100 per fit," Hoddle said on TNT Sports before Saturday's game.

"But a groin problem is a massive problem. I had that way back when I was younger and it took a long time to recover.

"You never quite know with a groin and when it's perfect until you get out there and play and that's the problem. But they still have some talent."

Speaking on Friday, Maresca acknowledged he had misjudged Palmer's situation with his earlier remarks about the attacking midfielder's injury timeline.

"I was wrong [about Palmer]," he said. "Unfortunately he needs to be out for six more weeks.

"We're doing our best to protect Cole as much as possible. The most crucial thing is that when he returns, he's in top form.

"Our medical team aren't miracle workers. We're hoping six weeks will suffice. We'll have to take it one step at a time. But rest assured, he'll be alright."

Despite missing their star player, the Blues managed to secure a victory against Forest on Saturday, with goals from Josh Acheampong, Pedro Neto and Reece James. Their 3-0 win led to the abrupt dismissal of Ange Postecoglou, less than 20 minutes after the final whistle.