John Terry could be back in action for the Blues in two weeks.
The inspirational skipper injured a knee in Chelsea's derby clash against Spurs on Saturday, and could now be ready for the meeting of Sunderland at Stamford Bridge on September 10.
He had a scan on his injury on Sunday, and that medical report went with him when he reported for England duty on Monday.
Terry, 26, was sent back to Chelsea to maintain his recovery.
Initial reports put Terry's injury as one that would keep him out for six weeks.
Now it appears he could be back in half that time - even for the visit of the bottom of the league Black Cats.
Failing that, then Terry could figure in the Champions League clash against Anderlecht the following Tuesday.