Chelsea captain John Terry has undergone a successful operation on his back.
Terry has missed the club's last four games with the complaint, but underwent surgery on the problem on Thursday.
The club have confirmed the operation was a success, but have not put a timescale on when the defender will be fit to return.
"Chelsea Football Club can confirm that today (Thursday) club captain John Terry underwent successful surgery following his back injury," read a statement on the club's official website.
"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."
During Terry's absence, Chelsea have kept just one clean sheet in four games - the 1-0 Carling Cup win over Newcastle United.
In the three Premiership fixtures Terry has missed, The Blues have conceded two goals in each match and now trail Manchester United by four points in the title race.
Reports suggest the likely timescale for Terry to return to the fray is between four and six weeks.