Michael Essien's persistent knee troubles have dogged his Chelsea career in recent seasons, but the powerful midfielder is optimistic after his latest injury setback.
The Ghanaian ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus during the opening training session of Chelsea's pre-season training and, after undergoing surgery, he was expected to miss a significant portion of the season.
Essien, 28, is now looking at taking gradual steps in his recovery process, but he is reluctant to get too specific about when he will return to action.
"The injury is well-documented so I will not dwell on it, however I can say I have had a good operation on my knee and I am definitely on the mend," Essien wrote on in his blog on the Chelsea website.
"My days are filled with physio sessions from 10am to 5pm and it is a gradual process which I am confident will lead to the results I want.
"I have been here before and know the routine inside out now but it’s still hard work as I hate to watch games on TV.
"I prefer to be with my team-mates in training and on the field of play, however I know I have to be patient so I can heal properly.
"I have been asked when I am coming back and at this point in time it’s down to how the recovery goes and when I am given the all clear by the medical team. Sorry I can’t be more precise but its too early to give specific dates."