Chelsea reveal Drogba op

Chelsea have confirmed Didier Drogba underwent an operation on Saturday on his injured knee.

The Ivory Coast striker, 29, has been dogged by a persistent knee problem and the club decided he should undergo surgery after it locked up on Friday.

It means Drogba missed Saturday's game against Sunderland at Stamford Bridge and Tuesday's game against Valencia in the Champions League, in which they have already qualified for the knock-out stages.

The Blues then face Premier League leaders Arsenal on December 16, but they have not specified how much longer the striker is expected to be out of action for, with the busy holiday programme fast approaching.

Club doctor Bryan English said: "Didier's knee locked and the decision was taken to have the operation immediately in the medical interests of the player. The procedure went well and he will begin his rehabilitation as soon as possible."