Lift for Lampard but blow for Benayoun

England midfielder Lampard, 32, has not played for club or country since aggravating a hernia problem in August’s 2-0 win against Stoke.

He underwent surgery last month and resumed training only to suffer a groin strain.

Lampard has missed Chelsea’s last seven games but said: “I don’t really want to set dates but I’m hoping to return after the international break.”

But summer signing Benayoun could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a ruptured Achilles tendon.