In a recent interview after the UEFA Europa League draw (via Football.London), former Chelsea full-back Ashley Cole disclosed that he will be working as a youth coach for his former club. Speaking to the media, the ex-England international shed some light on his future plans and said (via Football.London), “I’ve worked under some great managers, took a lot from them so I will go back to Chelsea and work with their under-15s and see where it goes from there.”
This recent development will a welcome bit of news for anyone associated with the West London club as Cole could prove to be a massive coup for them as they try to develop some top young talents in English football.
It could turn out to be a clever appointment for the Pensioners as the 38-year-old knows the club well from his time at Stamford Bridge as a player. Cole will be desperate to get his coaching career off to a good start if he hopes to build a successful career off the pitch following his retirement from playing professional football.
Ashley Cole’s Legendary Playing Career In England
Cole has enjoyed an illustrious career in European football after he played for some of the elite teams such as Arsenal, Chelsea and AS Roma. The Premier League legend has featured in a total of 687 matches in his career, scoring 20 goals while grabbing 69 assists on all fronts. The former Chelsea defensive ace has also earned 107 international caps for the England national team.
The London-born footballer has won a hat-trick of Premier League titles and has also tasted success in the UEFA Champions League. Cole managed to win the FA Cup seven times during his brilliant career which made him a household name in English football. However, one can argue whether he has what it takes to make a smooth transition to football coaching.
What Will The Retired English Defender Bring To Stamford Bridge?
The Pensioners need more of their ex-players to step up and help Lampard establish his future plans at the West London club in the coming years. Cole has a wealth of experience of playing football at the highest level so he could help the Chelsea youngsters improve their game so that they can make a positive impact at the senior level. The 38-year-old will bring a winning mentality to West London and will be a calming presence behind the scenes as well.
Cole’s Appointment As A Youth Coach: Good Move For Lampard?
Cole will get a fantastic opportunity to start his coaching career at one of the top clubs in England. He will also be able to communicate well with his former teammate Frank Lampard so that Chelsea have the best possible chance to develop some future first-team players from their academy.
However, the Englishman doesn’t have any previous coaching experience, so he might find it challenging to adapt to his new coaching role under Lampard’s stewardship at the Bridge.
