Chelsea Football Club News

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• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

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Zhirkov dispels surgery fears

20 Aug 2009 - 16:38:07

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Chelsea' £18million signing Yuri Zhirkov has rejected claims he will need an operation to cure a knee injury.

The left-sided winger, who can also cover the left of defence, has been absent from Chelsea's 100% start to the new Premier League season after aggravating a knee problem on the club's pre-season tour of America.

But the Russian, who turned 26 on Thursday, has targeted a return to action before the end of August.

"I don't know who spread these rumours, but they don't correspond to reality," said Zhirkov.

"My condition has improved and the doctors say that in two or three days I will be able to return to training, although not fully.

"I'll work on an individual programme. I was feeling pain and noticeably limping when running, but now that's behind me. I just need to tone up the leg."

The former CSKA Moscow player could come into contention for the Blues' clash with Burnley, though he faces an uphill battle to claim a place in Carlo Ancelotti's starting line-up as they have made an impressive start to the new season.