TOPEKA, Kan. – Kansas Sen. Pat Roberts is recovering from knee surgery.

Roberts’ office said he underwent surgery Tuesday at a Washington-area hospital to repair torn cartilage in his left knee. He was released and is recuperating at his home in Alexandria, Va.

Spokeswoman Sarah Little said Roberts probably won’t be in his office this week, but will return to the Capitol next week for major votes, if needed.

Roberts issued a statement saying his surgery was a success. He joked that he will “be back in uniform and armchair quarterbacking” well before the start of this year’s football season for his alma mater, Kansas State University.

Robert turns 73 on Monday. The Republican won a third term in the Senate last year.