Townsend World Cup dreams dashed

England winger Andros Townsend has been ruled out of the World Cup after Tottenham announced he must undergo ankle surgery.

Townsend will be sidelined for 10 weeks and is to undergo the procedure to the joint on his left leg on Thursday.

“Following further examination and consultation, Andros Townsend is to undergo surgery on his left ankle after damaging ligaments during our fixture against Stoke City last Saturday,” a club statement read.

“The injury is likely to sideline the young winger for up to 10 weeks.”