Captain Terry flying out to find cure as problems mount for Ancelotti

The Blues are facing a defensive crisis with Terry and fellow centre-back Alex ruled out for weeks.

Terry missed Chelsea's shock 3-0 defeat by Sunderland with a nerve problem that affects his right leg and he also withdrew from the England squad to play France.

It is understood that Terry has gone to Italy to see a consultant recommended by club chief Carlo Ancelotti.

Terry, 29, was believed to have travelled with Chelsea doctor Bryan English.

However, Chelsea have yet to confirm Terry's visit and the England international is also set to undergo further scans in England.

Terry's absence has been compounded by the loss of Alex who is expected to be out for up to two months.

It leaves Ancelotti with Branislav Ivanovic as his only senior central defender. Against Sunderland, Ancelotti preferred to play 33-year-old right-back Paulo Ferreira in central defence instead of youngster Jeffrey Bruma.

Chelsea have trips to Tottenham and Arsenal coming up in December, sandwiching the visit of Manchester United.

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has "full confidence" in Rafael Benitez amid speculation the Spanish coach could be on his way out of the San Siro.

The European and Italian champions have managed only one win in five Serie A games and Sunday's 1-0 defeat to AC Milan left Inter six points behind their league-leading city rivals in the standings.

Moratti has however denied reports that he is considering a coaching change, telling Gazzetta dello Sport: "This is an invention and I've read it in the newspapers. We have chosen this project and it will go forward. I have full confidence in Benitez."