The Defense Rests: John Terry And Ashley Cole Spared England Friendly Sentence

Remember how for some idiotic reason FIFA thinks it's a good idea to have a round of international friendlies two days before the opening day of most European leagues? This year is no different, and as part of the preparations for World Cup qualification Roy Hodgson's England will take on Italy at Wembley. Fortunately for Chelsea though, who wouldn't look too kindly on their players being injured on international duty just days before the first game of the season, English stalwarts John Terry and Ashley Cole will apparently be rested for the Italy game.

Less fortunate for Chelsea are the murmurs that Hodgson will also allow players who were either unable to play or were only reserves at the European Championships to show their stuff, which means Gary Cahill and Frank Lampard will presumably play some part. Furthermore, Hodgson will also be looking to promote some young talents into the senior squad, which may extend to Ryan Bertrand and Daniel Sturridge, both of whom 'caught the eye' with their form for Team GB at the Olympics.

Meanwhile, Florent Malouda has not been selected in Didier Deschamp's first French squad for their friendly against Uruguay. We'll be sure to bring you more news concering Chelsea's friendly involvements as we hear them.