RB Leipzig expect to be without Emil Forsberg until the middle of next month as their Swedish playmaker struggles to overcome a groin injury.

"I assume he will be available at the latest after the next international break," said Leipzig coach Ralf Rangnick, whose team is fifth in the German league table.

"The medical department is working at full speed."

The international break ends November 20.

Forsberg, who has scored three goals and set up three more in 12 club games this season, suffered the injury in Sweden's goalless draw against Russia nearly three weeks ago and has not played since.

He will miss Wednesday's German Cup, second round match at home to Hoffenheim and Saturday's Bundesliga derby at sixth-placed Hertha Berlin.

Forsberg is also doubtful for the return Europa League game at Celtic on November 8, after Leipzig won the first leg 2-0, as well as the Bundesliga clash at home to Bayer Leverkusen three days later.

Rangnick added: "We strive to ensure that he will be fit."

Forsberg set the record for the most assists in a single Bundesliga season, setting up 22 goals and scoring a further eight more in 2016/17.

It bettered Kevin de Bruyne's previous record of 21 assists, set in 2014/15 for Wolfsburg before he joined Manchester City.