Cole to undergo surgery

(GSM) – England and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole is set to undergo surgery on his broken ankle later on Friday.

The former Arsenal left-back is facing a race against time to be fit for the World Cup this summer, after being ruled out of action for the next three months.

Cole sustained the injury to his left ankle during Wednesday night’s 2-1 Premier League defeat to Everton at Goodison Park.

The 29-year-old was hurt in a fair challenge with Landon Donovan, with the USA skipper expected to line up against England in their World Cup opener on 12th June.

Cole’s injury has led to inevitable speculation as to who will replace him in Fabio Capello’s plans for the showpiece tournament in South Africa.

Manchester City defender Wayne Bridge is the recognised deputy, but he has been inadvertently thrust into the media spotlight in recent weeks.

A series of newspaper allegations over axed captain John Terry’s reported relationship with Bridge’s ex-girlfriend led to speculation that the full-back could be ready to leave the international scene.

That suggestion was rejected by Eastlands manager Roberto Mancini, who firmly believes Bridge will answer his country’s call if he is selected for the forthcoming friendly with Egypt on 3rd March.

Other candidates to fill the void for the national side include Everton’s Leighton Baines,City defender Joleon Lescott and Aston Villa trio Gareth Barry, James Milner and Stephen Warnock.