Didier Drogba could make a surprise return for Ivory Coast in their opening World Cup clash against Portugal on June 15 despite suffering a broken arm, according to boss Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Chelsea striker Drogba needed surgery after sustaining the injury against Japan in a warm-up game and is still rated as doubtful for the tournament, but Swedish coach Eriksson is remaining optimistic.

“If it had been today or tomorrow, he wouldn't play. But there are still some days (until the Portugal game) - he might play against them.”

Drogba will be 36 when the next finals comes around in 2014, so this summer’s competition in South Africa will possibly represent his last chance of making an impact on the World Cup stage.