Stephen Hunt (R) challenges Michael Essien (L) of Chelsea
© AFP/File Adrian Dennis

LONDON (AFP) - Cech suffered the injury in a collision with Hunt, while his replacement, Carlo Cudicini, was also hospitalised after being poleaxed by Ibrahima Sonko in the stormy clash at Reading in October which the champions won 1-0.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho accused Hunt of being deliberately reckless and both Reading players received death threats through the post in the days that followed.

However, Hunt insists he is excited by the prospect of visiting Stamford Bridge despite anticipating a hostile reception.

"You always look forward to playing the champions, and that's Chelsea," Hunt told the official Reading website.

"You'd play them every week if you could, it's as simple as that.

"I don't know what type of reception I'm going to get. I've had letters from Chelsea fans saying I did nothing wrong.

"I can't control anything like that. All I can control is how I play on the day."

©AFP