Nick Maxwell is in serious doubt for the NAB Cup final, and perhaps the start of the season, after spending the night in a Perth hospital with what appears to be a broken rib - and bleeding kidneys.

Collingwood tonight issued a media statement, saying: ''Maxwell has some internal bleeding from his kidneys and will remain in hospital for observation. His condition will be monitored closely in coming days but at this stage his recovery time, and return to Melbourne, are not confirmed.''

Earlier, the premiership captain admitted he had to be admitted to a hospital as the rest of the Collingwood squad flew home, saying his shoulder was fine but "something else was going on''.

"Thanks for all the well wishers. Spent the night in hospital. Shoulder's fine - something else going on. Keep you posted as I learn more" Maxwell tweeted.

And then, later, he clarified his remarks: "Well I have internal bleeding from my injuries.Stuck in hospital for awhile but the boys will be ok-big game coming up-Dons looking sharp.''

Read more at the Herald Sun .....