The separation follows a fortnight of uncertainty after claims that the England star had been unfaithful during the pair's three-and-a-half-year marriage.

A spokesman for Cheryl said: "Cheryl Cole is separating from her husband Ashley Cole.

"Cheryl asks the media to respect her privacy during this difficult time. We have no further comment to make."

Manager Carlo Ancelotti insisted today that events outside of Chelsea's dressing room would have little effect on their preparation for tomorrow night's Champions League clash with Inter Milan at the San Siro.

"I think we are focused today and will be tomorrow on this important game," Ancelotti said.

"We will not change our motivation for this game, whatever happens outside our dressing room."

Cole is currently sidelined following surgery on a broken ankle suffered in the 2-1 defeat at Everton earlier this month.

That has cast doubt on his chances of making the England squad for this summer's World Cup finals in South Africa.

A spokesman for the injured player did not wish to make any comment about the separation today.

A spokesman for the club told Press Association Sport: "This is a private matter for Ashley, but the club continues to offer him and his family all the support it can in dealing with it."