John Terry could have been facing up to six months on the sidelines due to his back injury, according to Chelsea team doctor Bryan English.
The Blues skipper is expected to play his first game since 13th December on Saturday against Charlton having recovered quicker than expected from major spinal surgery.
A calf problem had hindered his return somewhat, but English has now revealed that Terry's plight could have been a lot worse.
Hailing the England skipper's character and mental fortitude during his injury struggles, the Chelsea doctor insisted that such a back injury could well have spelt the end of the player's season.
"Unfortunately, bruising on the nerve results in a slower recovery time than we would have liked, but now he's nearing a return," said English.
"I must stress he had the kind of condition that used to put people out for months, maybe six months.
"It's the kind of problem that would have put him out for the rest of the season. It's been very difficult for him, but he's shown lots of mental and physical strength and we're already in the final stages.
"Nerve damage is such a frustrating injury. With muscle damage you can see and feel it, but with nerve damage all you've got is muscles that are not working properly."
unfortunate long term injury
he had to
look at the defence when he was recovering.
absolutely rubbish