Benitez: 'Can't guarantee' Terry's return before new year

Rafael Benitez has admitted that Chelsea captain John Terry has had complications in his recovery, and is unsure when he will be ready to make his return to action.

Benitez has also questioned David Luiz’s defensive consistency, saying it would be ‘safer’ to play the Brazilian in midfield.

Terry has been out of action since his strange coming together with Luis Suarez on November 11. Suarez seemed to lose his balance and fall into the defender, seemingly pulling his weight down on to one leg, leaving the Ex-England captain to be stretchered off.

The international retiree had been expected to make a return within three weeks, but has so far been out for 6 weeks, and we are yet to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Terry is ruled out of Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge tie with Aston Villa tomorrow, and Rafa said: “You never know. That he is on the pitch is positive news. But we have to wait and see. He has an inflammation and the knee is so complicated.

“Today he was fine with the warm-up but the next day it can be a problem, it can be one step forward, one step back. I hope he will be available at Christmas but I can’t guarantee anything. You can’t predict when he will be available.”

Rafa Benitez went on to the subject of David Luiz, who many pundits have tipped to become a central midfielder. Luiz has been played in the role twice, and has impressed so far, leading many people to suggest it could be a permanent move.

Rafa added: “It’s easier for him [in midfield]. At centre-back one mistake everyone sees. In midfield it’s easier. He likes to play and enjoys keeping the ball, passing the ball and going forward. If he adjusts those things at centre-back he will be even better.

“He’s a player who likes to play and wants to help and win. He likes to be seen to take a risk where it’s necessary. I encourage him to try things. To do the easy things as well but are times he has to try things.”

I believe Luiz should be developed into a midfielder, in the near future, and I’m almost certain he will be used in that position in one of the next four games. Chelsea are apparently in the hunt for a central defender, and I think that will allow David more time to adapt to the role. Where would you play Luiz?