Chelsea left back Ashley Cole has yet to be offered a new contract at Stamford Bridge, and is considering his future at Stamford Bridge.
The England stalwart has been a consistent figure in defence for both club and country for over a decade, and is bidding to become the first ever Englishman to play at four FIFA World Cups in Brazil next summer.
However, this season Cole has lost his place in the Chelsea starting line-up, with Jose Mourinho stating that he will make the bench at best against former club Arsenal in this evening’s London derby.
Cole is now 33 years of age, and has won every trophy going at club level – including three Barclays Premier League titles and the 2012 UEFA Champions League.
With talk of a move for Southampton left back Luke Shaw though, who at just 18 years of age already looks better than a mere prospect for the future, Cole’s days at Stamford Bridge may be numbered.
Because his contract at Stamford Bridge expires in June 2014, Cole is able to negotiate with clubs outside England from January 1st, but according to the Daily Telegraph he is happy to bide his time until an option presents itself.
Cole will certainly be able to do a job for a team elsewhere in the English top flight, but given his hugely impressive career record, he may not be willing to make a step down in his career.
The next six months could prove intriguing for both Chelsea and England.
COMMENTS