Cole diagnosed with broken foot

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Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole is facing at least three weeks on the sidelines after being diagnosed with a minor stress fracture in his foot.

The England international, 25, last played as a substitute in the 1-1 draw at Manchester United on 26 November.

After that match, pain in his foot stopped him from taking part in training and bruising was discovered.

Chelsea's website said a scan was carried out on Monday after which the foot fracture was confirmed.

<a class="bodl" href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A18095484?s_fromedit=1">606 DEBATE: Your reaction to Cole's injury</a>

Cole has made just three starts and eight substitute appearances this season and will now miss Chelsea's busy festive programme.

The Blues trail Manchester United by eight points in the table and face six Premiership matches over the Christmas and New Year period.

The fixture list also includes a Carling Cup quarter-final at Newcastle and an FA Cup third round tie at home to Macclesfield.