"It's a bit unfortunate," he says, "as I picked up a niggling groin injury the day after the Fulham game.
"I had a couple of scans on Monday morning and it wouldn't be right to go there not fully fit.
"There are two big qualification games for us against the South American side we play and that will seal our fate as to whether we make the World Cup or not.
"The first leg is in Australia and I wouldn't be able to get there until next Wednesday or something and it is just too little time.
"I just have to rest and not do anything silly; we have got four days off and I can just get a good rest in before training next week.
"But I should be back for West Ham later next week and should be fine for the Charlton game."
Hayden got into the side for the last two games when Tomas Repka was suspended and adds: "You don't mind who you play alongside but the main thing for me is to cement my spot and play regularly.
"I didn't enjoy losing against Fulham but it was nice to get out there and be playing.
"When the team is doing well it gives you confidence and that is a big thing when you play football.
"When a player is not confident you are seeing a totally different footballer to when he is.
"I have got that back after two games and I'm feeling well, so let's just see what happens in the next game."