Chelsea midfielder Ramires is expected to be sidelined until at least the latter part of next month.
The Brazilian is struggling with a hip abductor problem and has been ruled out of Saturday’s game against Aston Villa, Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Sporting Lisbon and the derby against Arsenal next weekend.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho hopes Ramires will then be available for the game at Crystal Palace on 18 October after the international break.
“It’s a muscular injury and he is not to play on Tuesday or even to play against Arsenal,” Mourinho explained.
“He needs the international two-week break. He needs some time so that maybe he can be back after that.”
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This post was last modified on 26/09/2014