Chelsea defender Wayne Bridge has been ruled out for the rest of the season through injury.
Bridge picked up an ankle injury during his side's 1-0 defeat to Newcastle in their FA Cup tie on Sunday.
The former Southampton defender fell awkwardly under a challenge from Alan Shearer and was forced to be stretchered off.
It was feared Bridge had suffered a serious injury and tests have shown he has sustained a double fracture of the ankle.
Bridge underwent surgery on Monday and the club hope he will be fit in time to join pre-season training for the start of next season.
The news is a massive blow for Chelsea as they will be without Bridge for the remainder of the campaign as they seek to maintain their treble hopes.
Chelsea defender Wayne Bridge has been ruled out for the rest of the season through injury.
Bridge picked up an ankle injury during his side's 1-0 defeat to Newcastle in their FA Cup tie on Sunday.
The former Southampton defender fell awkwardly under a challenge from Alan Shearer and was forced to be stretchered off.
It was feared Bridge had suffered a serious injury and tests have shown he has sustained a double fracture of the ankle.
Bridge underwent surgery on Monday and the club hope he will be fit in time to join pre-season training for the start of next season.
The news is a massive blow for Chelsea as they will be without Bridge for the remainder of the campaign as they seek to maintain their treble hopes.