Drogba 'can still play World Cup'

Didier Drogba is “definitely not out” of the World Cup at this stage and is awaiting the verdict of the Ivory Coast medical team on his injured arm, a national federation spokesman has confirmed.

Drogba was forced out of the Ivorians’ World Cup warm-up game against Japan in Sion today in the 17th minute and reports suggested the Chelsea striker could have fractured his right elbow – sparking fears he would miss the finals.

However, the federation insist he has not yet been ruled out.

“He’s not at all out of the World Cup,” a spokesman said. “He can still play.”