The Blues registered a 1-0 win over Manchester City on Sunday to reclaim second place in the Premier League table.

But the victory was partly marred by the injury of the Portuguese international, whose hamstring problem reoccurred late in the first half.

"I think he (Deco) will be out for a while," Hiddink stated after the game. "He was fit and has been working hard but got the same problem again."

The Dutch coach reckons the Brazilian-born veteran doesn't have a substantial chance of getting back in action this term.

"I have my doubts but let's see," commented Hiddink on whether Deco would recuperate from his recurring injury before the end of the season.