Chelsea and England captain John Terry today underwent surgery on his back injury. The 26-year-old has not featured in the Blues' last three Premiership matches, in which they have conceded six goals and fallen four points leaders Manchester United.
A club statement tonight read: "Chelsea Football Club can confirm that today club captain John Terry underwent successful surgery following his back injury.
"The operation took place in France following consultation between the Chelsea medical department and a leading neurosurgical specialist.
"The operation to remove a sequestrated lumbar intervertebral disc was successful and everyone at the club wishes John a speedy and full recovery."
It is unclear how much time the Chelsea skipper will need to recover from the operation, but it is understood it should be weeks rather than months of rehabilitation.
That would be welcome news for manager Jose Mourinho, who has made no secret of his desire to get the England defender back in action as soon as possible. It also remains to be seen if the defender will be fit to lead his country in their first international of 2007, against Spain at Old Trafford on February 7th.
In the continued absence of their inspirational centre-half and goalkeeper Petr Cech, the Blues have looked somewhat shaky in defence. Chelsea have now let in 15 goals — only seven fewer than they did over the whole of the last Premiership season.
