Chelsea will speed up contract talks with Joe Cole after the midfielder made a triumphant return to first-team action in the 5-0 thrashing of Blackburn on Saturday
Chelsea will speed up contract talks with Joe Cole after the midfielder made a triumphant return to first-team action in the 5-0 thrashing of Blackburn on Saturday
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Chelsea ended this weekend on top of the English Premier League table as all their nearest pursuers dropped points. After winning 5-0 against Blackburn on Saturday, the Blues saw Liverpool beat Manchester United 2-0, a defeat that left Chelsea two points clear at the top.
The England midfielder, whose current deal expires at the end of the season, has repeatedly said he wanted to wait until he was back in action before thinking about a new long-term contract.
The 27-year-old was superb in Chelsea's easy victory over Rovers, playing behind the front two in his favoured central role. A brace from Frank Lampard, an own goal by Gael Givet plus strikes from Michael Essien and Didier Drogba his eighth of the season completed the rout.
Cole's work-rate, trickery and flair had the Stamford Bridge faithful drooling with delight. He was given a standing ovation when substituted in the 76th minute and coach Carlo Ancelotti hugged the midfielder like a long-lost son before allowing him to sit down in the dugout.
Chelsea are hoping to get the FIFA ban, which prevents them from signing any players until 2011, suspended by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
"I am very determined to get back to playing for Chelsea and England and today was a good step for me," said a jubilant Cole. "I know all the games won't be like Blackburn but I enjoyed it nonetheless. It was a great win for us."
"Over the years I have learned to be patient with myself and the chances come, especially at a club like this.
We have to rotate players, which we haven't done as well over the last three years, and which we could have done. Everyone looks fresh and happy."
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