5 Left-Backs Who Could Replace Ashley Cole At Chelsea

Ashley Cole has played over 500 Premier League games between his time at Arsenal and Chelsea, and also earned 105 caps for the England national side. He is widely regarded as one of the best left-backs of his generation, but now at 32 and with a contract that runs out in the summer, here are 5 left-backs that could potentially replace him at Stamford Bridge.

1) Luke Shaw – Southampton

A boyhood Chelsea fan and upcoming English star, it seems as though the teen is a no-brainer for Mourinho. He’s quick, agile and has an eye for a cross but is also impeccable positionally. The 18-year-old recently signed a contract extension at St Marys and will probably see the season out with the Hampshire club, but there is no doubt in my mind that he will be donning the Chelsea shirt in the near future.

2) Leighton Baines – Everton

In my opinion Baines is a better left-back than Ashley Cole. Not only is he better defensively, but he is better at bombing down the wings and getting balls into the box. Baines made 116 chances last season – more than Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi combined – while Cole made just 17.

3) Fabio Coentro  – Real Madrid

The man who Manchester United tried to snap up in the summer – the Portugal international knows Mourinho and knows how he likes to play after spending time with him at current club Real Madrid.

4) Domenico Cristico – Zenit

The 26-year-old has sparked interest from Tottenham recently because of his positioning, his strength and his ability on the ball. Not only would it be a nice feeling to snatch him from under their London rival’s noses, but the Italy international would provide a more physical presence than Cole.

5) Filipe Luis – Atletico Madrid

His three-year stint at Atletico has been a brilliant one individually and he has been a big reason why the capital club have won 7/8 games so far this season.