Share

Cole released by West Ham

London - Former England midfielder Joe Cole confirmed on Wednesday he has left West Ham United after his contract with the Premier League club expired.

"I'm a free agent now and I'm looking for a new club," the 32-year-old told talkSPORT radio.

"My relationship with West Ham is great, but obviously it didn't work towards the end of this season. I didn't play enough."

Cole returned to West Ham, his formative club, on an 18-month contract in January 2013, but he was used sparingly during the season that has just finished and last started a league game in December.

"I'm just going to take my time over the summer and find the right fit," he added.

"At this stage of my career, finances are not important for me. I want to enjoy my football, I want to compete, and I just want to play more."

A skilful attacking midfielder, Cole joined Chelsea from West Ham in 2003 and won three Premier League titles during his time at Stamford Bridge, as well as becoming an England regular.

After injuries cost him his place in the Chelsea first team, he joined Liverpool in 2010, but the move failed to reignite his career and he was loaned to French side Lille for the 2011-12 campaign.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
loading... Live
Pakistan 0
New Zealand 98/2
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
65% - 396 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
35% - 217 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE