• Premier League

Cole bemoans Chelsea politics

Soccernet staff
June 27, 2010
Joe Cole has been linked with a move to Manchester United © Getty Images
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Joe Cole has claimed his unhappy final season at Chelsea was down to "political rather than footballing reasons'', but dismissed the notion that he did not get on with coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Chelsea confirmed earlier this month that they were releasing Cole from his contract, a move that caused much consternation among the club's fans.

And after admitting he was "devastated'' after England's World Cup campaign came to an end via a 4-1 reversal against Germany, Cole insisted he is ready to sort out his club future away from Stamford Bridge.

"I want to get my future sorted as quickly as possible," Cole said. "My season for Chelsea wasn't great for what I believe were political reasons rather than footballing reasons.

"Carlo Ancelotti - I love him. I've got big respect for him. I don't want to go on into it now. It isn't the time. It is not financial and it is nothing to do with Carlo. I love Carlo. I think he is a top guy and a top manager.

"I loved my time at Chelsea, I love the fans, but it is a story for another day and I will tell it, but now is not the time. I want to have a couple of weeks off, want to sort my future out as soon as possible, go on holiday with my family."

And Cole, who has been linked with moves to the likes of Inter Milan, Arsenal and Manchester United, is willing to bide his time to make sure he joins a club where he can flourish.

"Next season I want to have a fantastic season for England and whatever club I am at. The next contract I sign will be a footballing decision. I want to play in a more central position.

"I want a manager who has faith in me and I'm talking about club football here. It is a big decision for me and my family but I'm open to anything at the moment.

"I have purposely not spoken to anyone while I've been here because that wouldn't be fair on England. My phone has been turned off but now I want to sort it all out.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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