Chelsea will be without Claude Makelele for a few weeks after the veteran holding midfielder underwent an ear operation.

The 34-year-old France international joins the Blues high-profile absentees in the form of skipper John Terry and forward Didier Drogba in missing the hectic festive schedule.

The Blues said in a statement on their official website: "Claude Makelele had an ear operation earlier this week and will be unavailable to play for a few weeks."