Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has revealed England captain John Terry may need surgery on his back injury.

Terry has missed the last four matches with the problem and Mourinho today insisted initial predictions that the defender would be out for two weeks were optimistic.

Speaking after today's 2-2 draw with Reading, he said: "I've no idea when John Terry will be back.

"I want John to be back at soon as possible. The medical department will have to make a decision soon.

"The medical department have said surgery might be a possibility. I want them to make a quick decision. I don't know how long he will be out for - three days, three weeks or three months, I don't know."

Terry's absence has been a major contributor to Chelsea's patchy defensive displays in recent weeks which culminated in today's shaky performance and bizarre own goal from Michael Essien.