The news on Ashley Cole doesn’t look good. The facts are still cloudy, although we do know that the left-back has not suffered a break to his ankle – this was confirmed in a report earlier today. However, rumour has it that scans have revealed extensive muscle and ligament damage that is likely to sideline Cole until the New Year.

We’ll wait for confirmation but such an injury is likely to create a decent amount of Fantasy interest in Wayne Bridge, his obvious replacement. Bridge emerged as a bargain purchase last season, benefiting from a lowly price tag and prolonged run in the side due to Cole’s injuries. However, having returned to Chelsea’s reserves against Fulham on October 2, he received a red card in that match and a 3-match suspension. Bridge is therefore unable to make a Premiership appearance until the game with Wigan on November 3. Up until then Avram Grant will have to look to Alex, Ben-Haim or possibly Ferreira to provide a left-back solution.