Chelsea [ Images ] and England [ Images ] captain John Terry [ Images ] has had back surgery, his club said on Thursday.

The central defender, who has missed the last four matches for his club, underwent the operation in France [ Images ] following consultation between the Chelsea medical department and a leading neurosurgical specialist, Chelsea said on their web site (www.chelseafc.com).

"The operation to remove a sequestrated lumbar intervertebral disc was successful and everyone at the club wishes John a speedy and full recovery," Chelsea said.

The club, four points behind Manchester United [ Images ] at the top of the Premier League, did not say how long they expected Terry to be out of action.