Chelsea’s Antonio Rudiger ‘positive’ as he posts hospital snap after knee surgery that ruled him out for rest of season
The 26-year-old had been making his first appearance for the Blues in the 1-1 draw against Manchester United, after limping off against Liverpool due to a problem on the same knee
ANTONIO RUDIGER has posted an encouraging picture for Chelsea fans showing him in a hospital bed after knee surgery.
The German will miss the rest of the Blues crucial run-in after having surgery on his knee for an injury suffered against Manchester United.
He said on Instagram: "What a pity I won't be able to help my team during the last games of the season.
"But my knee surgery went well and I'm already positive again.
"Thanks for all your messages and comments. And special thanks to the efforts of Professor Mariani @villastuart and his team."
The 26-year-old was making his first appearance for the Blues in the 1-1 draw at Old Trafford since limping off against Liverpool with a problem on the same knee when he came off in the second half.
The defender was accompanied by the club's doctor to Rome for the operation on his meniscus, where he is expected to remain until at least Thursday.
Chelsea revealed the surgery had been successful in a statement - but gave no indication on when the centre-back would return to action.
It read: "Toni Rudiger successfully underwent surgery on his left knee meniscus today.
"He will miss the rest of this campaign and will rehab over the summer to be back early next season."
The defender has played a pivotal role at the heart of Maurizio Sarri's backline with 44 appearances this campaign as the Stamford Bridge club fight on two fronts.
Chelsea currently sit fourth in the Premier League, two points clear of Arsenal with as many games remaining as they look to secure Champions League qualification.
The Blues are also face Eintracht Frankfurt tomorrow in the Europa League semi-final first leg but Rudiger is now certain to miss that and the return match, as well as the final if they make it.
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The injury blow means Sarri will likely call upon Andreas Christensen and David Luiz as his centre-back partnership for Thursda night's match.
The Italian manager may also be forced to recall club captain Gary Cahill from the wilderness to take a place on the bench before he leaves on a free this summer.
