According to Yahoo! Eurosport, Chelsea could be without their primary left back Ashley Cole for the next two matches, as the England international spends time on the injury table after sustaining an injury to his ribs in the Blues’ encounter with Norwich City in the Barclays Premier League at the weekend.
It was another nervous after noon for Chelsea fans as their side took on Norwich at Carrow Road in a must win fixture. The match, which marked the 7th round of fixtures in the Premier League, was played on the back of Liverpool winning their match against Crystal Palace at Anfield, putting pressure on the Blues. Jose Mourinho’s men took the lead through Brazilian ace Oscar in the 4th minute, but were taken aback when Anthony Pilkington put the hosts on level in the 68th minute. Mourinho made two changes at the end, bringing on Eden Hazard and Willian, and both men scored in the 85th and 86th minute respectively. Even though the fans were delighted at the performance of the side, there remained concerns about Cole’s fitness, as he had to be substituted in the second half due to a rib injury.
England are due to play Montenegro and Poland in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in the coming week, and Cole did not report for training on Monday, increasing concerns over his fitness. With news coming out from the medical staff that the left back will not feature in either game over the next week of international football, Chelsea are raising concerns over the long term fitness of their player. Mourinho does not have a wealth of options at left back, with 24-year old Ryan Bertrand the only recognized player in the position. The Blues will have to be very conservative of their use of Bertrand in Cole’s absence, with their next league fixture against Cardiff City being followed by a UEFA Champions League fixture away against Schalke 04 four just three days after.
With over 200 matches for Chelsea, and over 100 appearance for his national side, Cole’s experience will be vital for Chelsea’s attempt to get back amongst the top two in the league.