Chelsea believe John Terry will be out for around three weeks with the knee injury he suffered against Liverpool last weekend.
The Blues skipper was stretchered off following an accidental collision with Luis Suarez and it was feared he would face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
But scans later revealed he is likely to be unavailable for weeks rather than months.
Terry has undergone further assessment since swelling around the affected knee eased, and the club expect him to return to action in early December.
“We’re looking at approximately three weeks,” manager Roberto Di Matteo confirmed.
“We’re obviously pleased it’s not as bad as first feared. On the other hand, we’re disappointed we’re losing him again after he just got back.”
Meanwhile, Frank Lampard could return to full training next week following a calf problem.
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This post was last modified on 16/11/2012