Wayne Bridge had undergone an operation on his knee tonight, which will lead to at least a 3-week absence. Chelsea were thought to be putting the operation off until the end of the season, but Bridge was unable to train on the injury and decided to bite the bullet. Damian Duff had a similar operation whilst at Chelsea, and was absent from selection for 3-weeks. It is hoped that Bridge will be out for around the same period but it will be a few days before a prognosis can be gained. Some reports are already estimating a 6-week absence, effectively ending Bridge’s season.

Those Fantasy Managers still clinging to Wayne Bridge like a cheap comfort blanket, must surely cast the Chelsea bench-warmer aside now. Ashley Cole’s return and now the rehabilitation from this operation, will severely limit Bridge’s first team opportunities. Significantly, the absence of Bridge should mean that Cole is one player who is safe from being rested on Saturday against Sheffield Utd, in preparation for Monday’s Cup replay with Spurs. Chelsea have few options at left-back unless Jose opts to use Ferreira on the left in order to rest Cole.