Gorenje washing machine 7kg - fliter cap broken off?

I was aiming to clean the filter of my Gorenje washing machine this morning. I drained the water and then began removing the filter cap. It was quite stiff. Unfortunately I did not see all the excellent posts here about ways to free up a washing machine filter and in trying to remove the filter, I broke the cap off. Now the filter is stuck in the machine and it is not possible to remove it with pliers etc.. I am keen to get your recommendations. Thank you.