The Republic of Ireland international is now hoping that his injury problems are behind him as he approaches Sunday’s Barclaycard Premiership game against Birmingham.

But while he has been taking part in judo sessions to strengthen his shoulder, he acknowledges he did take a gamble in not having surgery.

Duff revealed: “When I first went to the specialist he wanted me to have an operation.

“But that would have put me out of action for three months, and I didn’t want to do it because I would have been missing too much football.

“So I took a big risk by not getting it done. But I’ve been working hard with (fitness coach) Roberto Sassi, and it’s good to be back.

“I felt a bit nervous before I went on against Watford after being out for three or four weeks – but it went well and it was good to get that under my belt.

“My shoulder is still weak, but I’ve been doing some judo to practise my rolls and falling on it.

“I’ve been trying everything really. I’m going to see another specialist now and I’ve been keeping on top of things.”

Claudio Ranieri is relieved to have Duff fit again, referring to his “devastating” ability to take on opponents – and admitting too his 84-year-old mother is pleased to see her favourite player back.

Chelsea have certainly missed Duff’s attacking penetration, the Irishman even managing to set up Eidur Gudjohnsen for his side’s fourth goal on Wednesday night in his short spell on the pitch.

He told Chelsea TV: “I was desperate to score or get an assist against Watford, so I was running about like a loon. But to be fair, Eidur still had an awful amount of work to do!”

Now Duff must just stay fit – and trust that his fitness gamble pays off.