Jose rules out Carlton recall

Jose Mourinho said today it is unlikely he will recall striker Carlton Cole from his loan spell at Aston Villa during the January transfer window.

Mourinho, whose Chelsea team face Fulham tomorrow, said: "It would be very difficult for someone to come here in January and integrate fully into the squad. We have a special unit here and cover for every position.

"Unless they are very special or we suffer injuries, I don't need anyone else at this time.

"As for Carlton Cole, he is not playing well for Aston Villa and it is difficult for me to bring him back."

Mourinho also revealed that striker Didier Drogba is nearing full fitness after recovering from a groin operation.

He said: "Didier is on schedule and I would say he will be ready to play by the time we play Charlton at the end of the month."