Ashley Cole ruled out of England clash with Moldova

Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has been ruled out of England's World Cup qualifying clash with Moldova on Friday due to an ankle injury.

The 31-year-old has returned to his club in order to receive further treatment on the knock which is described as "minor" by the FA's official website.

Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson remains hopeful that the left back could make a return in order to feature in the second qualifying clash next Tuesday against Ukraine.

 Cole, who helped Chelsea to its maiden Champions League success last term, featured in every game at Euro 2012 as England was knocked out by Italy at the quarterfinal stage.

The upcoming games mark Hodgson's first qualifiers with England after he succeeded Fabio Capello in the national team hot seat.