A rib injury has ruled Ashley Cole out of England's final World Cup qualifier against Poland on Tuesday night.

The complaint, which he sustained while playing for Chelsea at Norwich City last weekend, kept the 32-year-old out of Friday night's 4-1 win over Montenegro.

It had been hoped that the full-back may recover in time for the visit of the Poles, but it was confirmed this afternoon that he would play no part in proceedings.

The absence of Cole is likely to mean that Everton's Leighton Baines will continue to deputise at left-back for what will be his 21st cap at senior international level.

Written by
Liam Apicella