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Dalglish challenges Cole to earn Liverpool future

Joe Cole has had a debut Liverpool season of few high points © PA Photos

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Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has sent a veiled warning to Joe Cole that he must make the most of any chances he gets over the remainder of the season to secure his future at the club.

Cole has been a massive disappointment at Anfield since arriving on a free transfer from Chelsea last summer, struggling for form and fitness under former manager Roy Hodgson and subsequently failing to cement a place in the first team under new boss Dalglish.

But the England international came off the bench against Birmingham City at the weekend to bag a goal in the 5-0 rout, and his manager hopes that is the start of a more impressive run of displays over the final weeks of the season.

"Everybody has to work hard to get anything and Joe is no different from anybody else," Dalglish said. "But he's done that, and has got his chance. It could be important for him.

"Joe's goal wasn't a little contribution. It could be massive for him because he has not had as many opportunities as he would have liked as he's been injured and suspended."

Cole has been linked with an early exit from the club in the summer, although his wages are likely to prove a major stumbling block for most interested parties. However, Dalglish seemed to suggest the creative midfielder still has a future on Merseyside after praising his conduct and efforts in training.

"He's had a difficult time, but it is a great credit to him the way he has been training and working every single day," the Scot added. "He's not let it affect him, and that's all I can ask for - for anyone when they do get their chance to go on and do their best.

"He is fantastic in training. He plays everything right and doesn't have a problem."

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