Joe Cole Bio Send To Friend  

A child prodigy, Cole started his career at West Ham and was touted as one of the hottest prospects in the game as a 16-year-old. He helped the Hammers win the FA Youth Cup, but was relegated from the top flight in 2003 and was snapped up by Chelsea for £6.6 million.

The move proved fruitful as he picked up Premier League and FA Cup trophies, while his international ambitions also took off with a starring role in the 2-0 win over Andorra in World Cup qualifying.

A stylish, technically sound player, Cole's versatility allows him to play in a variety of midfield roles; but a cruciate ligament injury ruled him out of action for half of the 2008-09 season and he suffered from a lack of playing time that may hinder his England hopes.

Strengths: Technically one of the best players around, he has a great passing range and his creativity can unlock a defence.

Weaknesses: Doesn't have a great deal of strength, or tackling ability. Also very weak in the air.

Career high: Winning his first Premier League title with Chelsea, the club he supported as a boy, in 2005.

Career low: Relegated with West Ham in 2003, the 21-year-old skipper could not keep his side up.

Style: Technical, confident, tricky, a stylish midfielder.

Quotes: ''I'm only 26 still but I've got a lot of experience now and know the game. I'm getting better every year and hopefully I can continue." Joe Cole, August 2008.

Trivia: Cole was in the crowd to watch his favourite player, Paul Gascoigne, score a famous goal against Scotland at Wembley in Euro '96.

Soccernet says: His versatility gives Capello options in midfield and he also has the ability to make an immediate impact on a game from the bench.