Ashley Cole, England

Roy Hodgson delighted for Ashley Cole

England boss Roy Hodgson was full of praise for Chelsea full back Ashley Cole as he prepares to break an England record.

The former Arsenal man is set to make his 21st appearance at a major tournament, breaking the current record held by Peter Shilton and David Beckham.

“He misses very few games, either for his national team or club team, and always plays to a very high level,” Hodgson said.

“It is great to hear that he has this record to beat when he plays against the Ukraine. I am delighted for him.

“It would be wrong to take him for granted. We are very much aware of his qualities and how much we need him down that left side.

“Because he is a quiet man, maybe for a lot of people he does slip under the radar.

“I know he is most comfortable when he lets his football do the talking.”