Jose Mourinho backs Ashley Cole for World Cup inclusion

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has insisted that Ashley Cole should be a part of the England squad for this summer's World Cup, despite the fact that he has used the left-back sparingly this season.

Mourinho has often preferred Cesar Azpilicueta to Cole, which has limited the 33-year-old to 25 appearances in all competitions this term.

However, having used the defender in recent matches against Atletico Madrid and Liverpool, Mourinho believes that Cole has done more than enough to capture the attention of England head coach Roy Hodgson.

"Ashley hasn't played a lot this season but he has played against Atletico Madrid and Liverpool away. These matches represent 20 and Mr Roy Hodgson knows that Ashley Cole is ready for the World Cup," he told reporters.

Cole is believed to be vying for a place in the squad with Everton's Leighton Baines and Southampton youngster Luke Shaw.