Joe Cole suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in the game against Southend United.

After a thorough assessment of the injury Joe underwent successful reconstructive surgery this morning. He will miss the rest of the season.

Manager Luiz Felipe Scolari said: 'I am very sad for Joe to have suffered this injury and I am disappointed to have lost a very important player for me and the club at such a vital moment in the competition.

'However, I believe that with his spirit, Joe will come back to Chelsea even better than before.'

In total Joe has played 20 times this season, scoring three times, all in wins against Portsmouth, Bordeaux and Aston Villa.