Chelsea have appointed Ashley Cole as a new youth team coach following his retirement in the summer after playing the latter half of last season at Derby County.
The 38-year-old is without doubt one of Chelsea’s best ever players.
(Photo by Steve Feeney/Action Plus via Getty Images).
Cole played alongside manager Frank Lampard for years at Stamford Bridge, winning several titles including the Premier League three times and the Champions League.
The former England international then joined Lampard at Derby last season. He helped the club reach the playoff final, eventually succumbing to defeat to Aston Villa.
Lampard’s move from Derby to Chelsea in the summer saw assistant boss Jody Morris move too. And now, somewhat belatedly, Cole has finally joined him.
Good to have you back, @TheRealAC3! 👊
Watch our first interview with Ashley since he returned to Chelsea as a coach in the 5th Stand app!
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 17, 2019
Cole is one of England’s most decorated players, making 107 appearances.
He will offer plenty of experience to Chelsea’s young players, Moreover, he has played under some of the world’s best managers as he plots his own future in management.
Derby’s left-back injury crisis last season saw Cole join the club in January as Craig Forsyth and Marcus Olsson were out long-term while Scott Malone struggled at times.
(Photo by Steve Feeney/Action Plus via Getty Images).
Many supporters felt Cole did an excellent job given the circumstances, and young talents like Max Lowe and Jayden Bogle had plenty of reason to soak up his advice.
Also see: ‘Totally average’: Some Derby fans glad they didn’t sign Charlton player in the summer.
Also see: Club confirm signing of reported Derby County and Stoke City target.