ASHLEY Cole is set to start for Chelsea in Sunday's crunch clash with Stoke.

The England star broke his ankle against Everton in February, but was an unused sub in last weekend's loss at Spurs, leaving them just a point clear of Manchester United as the Premier League title race hots up.

But Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Cole is back to full fitness, while Michael Essien will also return before the end of the campaign.

"Ashley Cole, yes, he is ready," Ancelotti said.

"We hope Essien will be back before the end of the season.

"It's very exciting, I always said it will be decided in the last game, until then it will be a fight."

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