• Premier League

Joe Cole doubtful for Chelsea due to hamstring blow

ESPNsoccernet staff
October 31, 2010
Joe Cole suffered a hamstring strain © Getty Images
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Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole could miss next Sunday's clash against former club Chelsea after picking up a hamstring injury in Liverpool's 1-0 win at Bolton.

Cole, 28, swapped Stamford Bridge for Anfield over the summer after Reds boss Roy Hodgson snapped him up on a free transfer, but after limping off against Bolton he may miss out on coming face to face with his former team-mates.

Though Hodgson does not believe the injury is too serious, he revealed that Cole's availability for next Sunday's match would become clearer after further tests.

"He has a slight hamstring injury and we don't know the extent of it until after he has a scan," Hodgson said.

The experience is a new one to Cole having never suffered such a muscle injury in his career. Having already served a three-match ban this season, it is also another setback as he attempts to establish himself at Anfield.

The Reds could be boosted for the visit of the champions and league leaders by the return of Dirk Kuyt. The Dutchman has made a rapid recovery from an ankle injury sustained on international duty earlier this month.

"I think he will be available to be in the squad against Chelsea, but whether he is fit enough to play remains to be seen," Hodgson said. "I think he will return to training towards the latter part of the week and then it is a question of seeing how well he can cope.''

Another former Chelsea player, Glen Johnson, is also expected to be available after a thigh strain.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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