Frank’s getting the band back together
Ashley Cole has joined Derby County on a short term deal, reuniting with his former England and Chelsea teammate Frank Lampard, now in charge at Derby in his first managerial role.
Ashley Cole is a Ram. 🐏#WelcomeAshley pic.twitter.com/HEuwvjUAd5
— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) January 21, 2019
Cole joins the Rams after being let go by LA Galaxy at the end of the last MLS season. The 38-year-old was not ready to hang up his boots just yet, and fancied one last crack at English football.
The move could be strange for Cole, as he will be working under Lampard, whom he played with for eight years at Chelsea, and even longer in the England squad.
Cole’s contract will run until the end of the 2018/19 season, with the club hoping that his experience will help them in their pursuit for promotion.
Reacting to the signing, Lampard said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to secure Ashley’s services for the rest of the season.
“He’s a fantastic player, a quality left-back, and he also brings great experience to the dressing room.
“I know him very well from our time together at Chelsea, and with England, and I also know what he can bring to the group and the influence he will have.
“Ashley is in good shape, which doesn’t surprise me because he’s an excellent professional, and he will compete for a place in the side like every other player here.
He added: “I’ve made my feelings known over the last couple of days just how highly I think of Ashley and I have no doubt whatsoever he will be a positive addition to our squad.”
Speaking in his first interview as a Derby player, Cole admitted “It’s going to be a challenge.”
“I’ve not played in England for five years now, so coming from the MLS in America and a different culture, different way of way of playing and philosophies then coming here where it’s cold, it rains, difficult conditions and strong players in a good, tough league.
“I’m again coming out of my comfort zone when I could have stayed in the MLS and relaxed, but I wanted to come here and fight for something, fight for a good cause and make promotion. I think that would be great for the club and for Lamps and me as well.”
