Chelsea Shock – Oriol Romeu expected out for 6 months

Chelsea midfielder Oriol Romeu is expected to be missing from action for around 6 months, the club have confirmed.

Romeu had been expected to join the squad in Japan, where Chelsea are vying to win their first World Club Cup, but after meeting Chelsea’s medical staff in London, that was no longer the case. George Saville has been flown into Japan to take his place in the Chelsea squad.

The Spaniard had to receive anterior cruciate reconstruction surgery and medial meniscus repair on his knee, as recommended by Chelsea’s medical staff.

Romeu lasted only 20 minutes of the 3-1 win at the Stadium of the Light before being assisted off the pitch and replaced by Oscar.

The Ex-Barcelona midfielder had been receiving more game time since the arrival of Rafa Benitez, and will not be happy with this most recent setback.

Chelsea will now be without Oriol and John Obi Mikel, who still has a two-match ban to fulfill for his part in the Clattenburg case, for the Capitol One clash with Leeds United match next week and the Premier League game against Aston Villa in 12 days.

I think Ryan Bertrand could be used in place of the two defensive midfielders when the team arrive back in England, a role he was played in the Champions League final.

It is unfortunate to lose Romeu at such a busy time of the year, just as he was starting to establish himself under Benitez. I hope this injury does not leave any permanent damage, and I hope to see him make an appearance before the end of the season. Hurry back son…