Lampard Signs Ashley Cole For Derby County

Lampard Signs Ashley Cole For Derby County

By Max Wise

Derby County manager Frank Lampard has signed his former Chelsea and England teammate Ashley Cole on a deal that will run until the end of the season.

The 38-year-old has been without a club since leaving Major League Soccer side Los Angeles Galaxy in October last year.

Cole is one of English football’s most decorated players, having won three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups, the UEFA Champions League, and the Europa League.

Derby County are pushing for promotion to the English Premier League as they currently lie sixth on the Championship table, and Lampard believes he can count on the experience of his former playmate.

"He's a fantastic player, a quality left-back, and he also brings great experience to the dressing room," Lampard told the club website.

"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.

"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."

Cole, who has 107 England caps, will be the oldest player to feature in the Championship this season if he gets his chance to feature for the Rams.