Lampard backs the Coles

(GSM) – Frank Lampard has expressed support for his teammates Joe Cole and Ashley Cole.

The Chelsea midfielder believes both can make it to the World Cup finals.

Both Coles are in danger of missing the tournament in South Africa – but for differing reasons.

Fullback Ashley Cole is battling to recover in time from his broken ankle, while winger Joe Cole was omitted from the last England squad as he struggles to regain a regular starting spot in Chelsea’s first-team.

But Lampard is confident both will be included in Fabio Capello’s World Cup squad.

On Ashley Cole, Lampard – speaking to Sky Sports News – said: “Our doctors are confident they can get him there.

“Ash didn’t know (how long he would be out), he just knows how he felt in the beginning and it is very difficult for us players to know.

“But fingers crossed, if everything goes right he has a very good chance. If there are complications, then who knows, it is not for me to say, you just have to hope that he is fit as he is one, if not the, best full-backs in the world.”

With Joe Cole, Lampard is hopeful he will regain the form that made him an integral member of England’s 2006 World Cup squad.

“I think you certainly know with the England manager now, if your form deserves to get you in, you will be,” he said.

“I don’t think the door is shut for Joe or anyone else, and that is how it should be and that is the beauty of the era over the last few years, it is on form and how you are playing.

“So if Joe is playing for Chelsea at the top of his game then I think the England call will come.”

Turning his attentions to the title race, Lampard is expecting more twists and turns.

“I just think there are tough places on your travels – Everton have beaten both us and Man Utd recently – so it is not easy for anyone to put that long run of wins together,” he said.