Chelsea captain John Terry has lamented the loss of Ghana midfielder Michael Essien as the Blues chase both domestic and European glory this season.

The Black Stars ace was badly injured during Friday's World Cup loss against Libya and has been sideline until at least the New Year.

His injury adds to the frustrations of Chelsea whose injury list is growing by the day and Terry is in no doubt their midfielder powerhouse will be missed.

"I spoke to Michael - he's obviously had a bad injury," he said. "He was saying it is going to be up to five or five and a half months.

"I am very disappointed as Chelsea captain to lose him. He's been fantastic last year and this year and hopefully he'll be back sooner rather than later."

Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac has also admitted Essien's loss is a huge blow in ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.