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Ashley Cole out of Moldova match

ESPN staff
September 3, 2012
Ashley Cole is out of the game against Moldova © PA Photos
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Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole has been ruled out of England's World Cup qualifier against Moldova on Friday with an ankle injury.

The 31-year-old has returned to his club for treatment, and will undergo further assessment before a decision is made on his availability for the second qualifier against Ukraine next Tuesday.

"After reporting to the England hotel on Monday morning, Ashley Cole has returned to Chelsea for further treatment," an FA statement read.

"Cole has a minor ankle concern and will be treated by his club this week, before being assessed by the England medical staff on Sunday to see if he is available for the World Cup qualifier with Ukraine."

Cole, who has a history of niggling ankle complaints that sometimes restrict his ability to train, was involved as Chelsea lost in the European Super Cup to Atletico Madrid last Friday.

He reported to England's training base on Monday, but was not considered fit enough to join in with the rest of the squad for a light training session and was subsequently sent back to his club for treatment.

England boss Roy Hodgson has other left-back options in his squad, with Everton defender Leighton Baines set to deputise and Cole's Chelsea team-mate Ryan Bertrand also capable of playing the position.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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