Ivory Coast star Didier Drogba has been ruled out of the World Cup, according to reports in France.The Chelsea striker was forced off the pitch with an apparent elbow fracture during the first half of a warm-up game against Japan in Sion, Switzerland.

L'Equipe reported on its website that he was immediately taken to hospital for scans, after which he confirmed he would play no part in the upcoming tournament in South Africa.

Ivory Coast coach Sven-Goran Eriksson confirmed after immediately the incident that the striker was rushed away for treatment, but at that point had no further news.

"It's an elbow injury but we don't know how bad it is, we (are going) straight to the hospital," said Eriksson. "I think we should get an answer before we leave."

"If it's serious, it's very worrying, he is our captain, one of the best strikers in the world."

Asked if he was concerned the injury could rule Drogba out of the World Cup he added: "Yes, I'm worried, of course I am."

The Elephants' star player went down under a heavy challenge from Japan defender Tulio after 15 minutes which left him spread-eagled on the pitch.

After rising groggily to his feet, the Chelsea forward hobbled off and was replaced by Seydou Doumbia.

Ivory Coast won the match 1-0, with Drogba's free-kick being deflected into his own goal by Tulio in the 13th minute before Kolo Toure added a second after 81 minutes.

The Africans face Brazil, Portugal and North Korea in their World Cup group.