Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says Ashley Cole will be in ‘perfect’ condition by the time the World Cup kicks off.
The Arsenal defender has been sidelined for seven months due to a foot injury but started against Manchester Ctiy on Thursday night and came through the game unscathed.
Wenger believes Cole will be fit to start for England in their first game against Paraguay.
“The positives are he’s not injured and Ashley got better and better during the game,” said Wenger.
“He had 90 minutes of high pace and came through well.
“Of course he is not at the top of his game yet as it was his first full match in a while.
“The good thing though is he is available and he can play. For England that is just right.
“We are at the beginning of May and the competition begins on June 10. In five weeks you should see a perfect Ashley Cole.”
Cole is delighted to be back playing with the Champions League final against Barcelona taking place on May 17.
“I was a little bit tired and we could have defended the corner a little bit better,” Cole told Sky Sports.
“I am happy to be playing now. I hope I can take my chance, be fit for Sunday and the Champions League final.”
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