Chelsea's Ashley Cole last week accidentally shot a work experience student with a .22 calibre air rifle at the club's Cobham training ground.

Cole had apparently taken the rifle into the training ground and was playing about with it not realising it was loaded, when it went off, hitting Tom Cowan in the side from less than 2 metres away.

Medical staff at the ground treated him at the time, but the wound was still weeping 2 days later and required further treatment, though he was not admitted to hospital.

 Police may interview Cole today regarding the matter, though no charges have been laid. They will be contacting the club to determine whether an offence has been committed.

Cole will face disciplinary action from the club, and it is understood he has apologised privately to Mr Cowan.