Drogba out until October says Ivory Coast coach

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, who is struggling to shake off a knee injury, will be out until October, according to Ivory Coast boss Vahid Halilhodzic on Wednesday.

Speaking after their 2-1 win over Guinea, Halilhodzic said: “Drogba will not be back before a month, a month and a half.”

Drogba, 30, who underwent surgery on the knee last year, is fighting a fitness battle in time for Chelsea’s derby match with Tottenham in August 31, with coach Luis Felipe Scolari keen to see him back in the squad.

The player travelled with the national team for Wednesday’s friendly match north of Paris but did not take part.

“He has started to run but he will not be available for the match against Mozambique (a 2010 World Cup qualifier, September 5),” added Halilhodzic.

Earlier this month Scolari said he would not rush the striker into returning before he is ready.

“He’s getting better and is working with a fitness coach back at the training ground. I hope he will be ready to start training next week,” said the Brazilian. “But he will not play until he is in good condition.”