Ashley Cole has revealed that he is still troubled by an ankle injury that he first sustained two years ago and has days where he struggles to even walk.

The England left-back played a significant part as Chelsea finished runners-up behind Manchester United in the Premier and Champions League, yet was troubled throughout.

"Just before I came to Chelsea I got injured playing in Arsenal's reserves and my ankle has never been the same since," he said.

"I have got chipped bones in my foot which sometimes can be okay, but then a bone can get stuck the next day and cause me a big problem because I can barely walk, let alone run and play at this intensity.

"It has been frustrating for me, but I have had good physiotherapy and have worked hard to keep myself fit and the ankle strong.

"However, sometimes there is nothing I can do as it's nature if a bone gets stuck."

Meanwhile, Luciano Spalletti is agonising about whether to take over as Chelsea manager after the Roma boss was offered the chance to move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are understood to be keen on the Italian as well as Phil Scolari and Guus Hiddink after being turned down by AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti.