England left-back Ashley Cole will have fully recovered from his broken ankle in time for this summer's World Cup finals.

There were fears that Cole could miss out on the event in South Africa after sustaining the injury during Chelsea's defeat by Everton in February.

But Blues coach Carlo Ancelotti has provided Three Lions counterpart Fabio Capello with a welcome fitness bulletin.

Ancelotti revealed that the defender was making excellent progress in his recovery and is due to return to full training in a fortnight, with a first-team return to follow soon after.

That would give Cole time to build up his match fitness prior to the World Cup and will also lift the Blues as they chase Premier League and FA Cup glory.

Ancelotti said: "Cole will definitely play this season. He will be ready for the World Cup.

"I've not spoken to Fabio Capello about this but the England staff are in contact with our medical staff.

"Ashley has been training individually and in 15 days he will be back with the squad.

"I think he will be ready to play in three weeks."