Chelsea dealt Katerina Svitkova injury blow
By Ali Rampling
Chelsea midfielder Katerina Svitkova has been ruled out for a 'significant period' after undergoing knee surgery.
The Czech Republic international joined the Blues from West Ham in the summer, and scored her first goal for the club during their 8-0 demolition of Vllaznia in the Champions League group stages in October.
However, she has featured just twice in the WSL this season, with a knee injury ruling her out of action in recent weeks.
Chelsea have confirmed that following a review by the club's medical team and a knee specialist, Svitkova has undergone knee surgery.
She is expected to be sidelined for a 'significant period' and, with the support of the club's medical team, will start a rehabilitation programme.
'Everyone at Chelsea sends their best wishes to Katerina in her recovery," a Chelsea statement read.
The 26-year-old has featured four times in all competitions for the Blues this term, scoring two goals.
Svitkova is the second Chelsea player to suffer a long-term injury this season, with Pernille Harder also currently sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained while on international duty with Denmark.
Chelsea currently sit second in the WSL, one point behind Manchester United but with a game in hand over the league leaders.
Emma Hayes' side have been drawn against European champions Lyon in the Champions League quarter-finals, and play Arsenal in the Continental Cup final in March.