Benayoun has been out since playing against Newcastle

Chelsea midfielder Yossi Benayoun has been ruled out for six months with the Achilles tendon injury uncovered while on international duty this month.

Israel captain Benayoun had only just shaken off a calf problem when he joined up for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Croatia and Greece.

However, a scan showed he had suffered a tear to his Achilles tendon.

The 30-year-old therefore underwent surgery on the injury on Monday ahead of a lengthy rehabilitation programme.

A club statement read: "Yossi Benayoun will undergo surgery on his Achilles [tendon] on Monday.

"The Israeli international returned to the club from international duty last week, and will now be out of action for approximately six months."

606: DEBATE How do you think this will change our selection issues? JoshSansom

Benayoun scored a hat-trick against Malta and also played in the goalless draw against Georgia in his country's two Euro 2012 qualifiers so far.

But he has been on the sidelines since going off during Chelsea's defeat at home to Newcastle on 22 September in the Carling Cup.

The better news for Chelsea is that Salomon Kalou and Alex, who had been suffering with thigh injuries, and Jeffrey Bruma (hamstring) are all expected to return to full training this week.

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