England Face Up To Major World Cup Injury Scare Following Cole Surgery

England are facing up to a potential crisis at summer following emerging news that Chelsea left back Ashley Cole may struggle to be fit for the 2010 World Cup. Cole has been an England stalwart in recent years, establishing himself as a near automatic selection on the left hand side of England’s defence. The Chelsea star recently suffered a broken ankle playing for his club against Everton on Wednesday night and at first it was believed he would be missing for around 3 months. But now it appears the injury could be even worse than first feared after he underwent surgery earlier today. Although Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti was hopeful of a return before the end of the season, he has admitted he is still unsure whether Cole would be back to fitness in time to play for Chelsea before this summers footballing showcase in South Africa. England’s alternatives at left back are arguably very limited, although Manchester City’s Wayne Bridge is a natural alternative in this position. However he lacks the speed of Cole and the same level of experience at international level. He may also struggle to form a bond in defence with England’s John Terry following the recent emergence of the controversial extramarital affair and personal issues concerning the private life of the former England captain.