Footballer Ashley Cole may face a race against time to be fit for the World Cup after breaking his ankle during Chelsea's midweek defeat at Everton.

The left-back suffered the injury in a challenge with Landon Donovan and the club said that he is expected to be out for three months, a situation that could put his participation in the tournament in South Africa in jeopardy.

Commenting on the news, England coach Fabio Capello was quoted by the BBC stating: "It's bad news for me because he is an important player … I hope this problem will be not so bad."

He has previously stated that only players fit and playing regularly for their clubs would get into his squad.

Those who have ankle problems may find that their own recovery is speeded up by using ultrasound equipment to treat them.

Another footballer struggling with an ankle injury is Aston Villa winger Stylian Petrov, who is fighting to be fit for this weekend's FA Cup tie against Crystal Palace.