Albion are facing a period without Jan Paul van Hecke as they look to bounce back from their first Premier League defeat of the season.

The centre-back was reported in the Netherlands to be out of contention for the forthcoming international window, for which he was in the provisional squad, due to a groin issue.

He has now told ESPN.nl he will be out for a short period.

“We have to wait and see how the rehabilitation goes, but in principle it is six weeks. I feel like I am slightly ahead of schedule. I hope that it will go a bit faster and that I can reijoin sooner.”

Van Hecke missed the 4-2 defeat at Chelsea on Saturday, ending his ever-present Prem record this term.

Fabian Huerzeler will offer an update on his squad later this week as they prepare to face Tottenham on Sunday ahead of the two-week break in domestic action.

The head coach said his team lacked “connection” at Stamford Bridge but added: “It shouldn’t be an excuse.”

Adam Webster accepted responsibility for his part in Chelsea’s equaliser and had some uncomfortable moments.

But he was involved in good build-up play for Georginio Rutter’s opener and his covering work prevented at least one Chelsea goal and, in all probability, a red card for Pervis Estupinan.

Albion also have the option of Igor, who did well after going on as substitute in the second half.

Van Hecke made his senior international debut in the last window and has been praised by club and country team-mate Bart Verbruggen.

Speaking ahead of the Chelsea trip, Verbruggen said: “I have always seen him as a consistent player but now he is on another level.”

Van Hecke said: "It's a shame and I'm disappointed that I had to sustain this injury at this time, but injuries never come at a good time.

"You have to learn to deal with it. I'm going to make sure I'm back as soon as possible."

Joel Veltman will be expected to return at right-back on Sunday.

Spurs play Ferencvaros in Budapest tomorrow evening and will be expected to make line-up changes, with Yves Bissouma among those who could start.

But their options for rotation at the back are affected by a UEFA ban for Radu Dragusin, who was sent off against Qarabag last week.