Drogba could miss chance to tame Wolves

Ashley Cole has said he is optimistic of making his Premier League return for Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday against Wolves (Chelsea 1/6, draw 11/2, Wolves 18/1 match bets).

It was initially feared Cole could be facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after he was diagnosed with a stress fracture of his tibia after the victory against Manchester United a fortnight ago, but the injury has responded well to treatment and he is in line for a speedy return.

The England full-back also revealed he will wear a special shinpad to protect the injury.

Cole said: "I've had a week's rest now, so it feels a little bit better and I've got to wear a shinpad to cover the knock.

"I've been playing with it and it did affect me a bit, but now I'm over it and I hope the shinpad can help.

"Hopefully, I'll be in the squad or the team on Saturday."

Key midfielder Frank Lampard is definitely out with a torn thigh muscle, while leading scorer and 8/11 Anytime Scorer Didier Drogba (chest) and midfielder Michael Ballack (knee) will be given every chance to prove their fitness.

John Terry has recovered from a calf complaint but full-back Jose Bosingwa has been ruled out until the New Year after knee surgery.

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