Chelsea midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron is to be sidelined for at least three months after a back operation, according to reports back in Argentina.
Although Veron's doctor declined to comment on Veron's situation, his father was pleased with his son's progress after the operation. "He's ok thank God. Everything went well. He is in the hands of professionals who are keeping close tabs on him," said Juan Ramon Veron.
Veron had already been sidelined for two months with back problems after returning from international duty with Argentina last November.
Local media suggested Veron would remain in Argentina during the initial recovery stages before moving back to England. It is thought Veron will be out until at least May after this latest setback.
Chelsea confirmed Veron had undergone surgery but could not say how long he would be out of action.