Ashley Cole has had a tough season, playing second-fiddle to Cesar Azpilicueta under Jose Mourinho. Now, though, reports are suggesting that Cole is a target for Manchester United come the end of the season when his contract runs out. Here are four reasons why he would be the perfect fit at Old Trafford.
1) Experience
Ashley Cole is no newcomer to the Premier League, or in fact international football. Cole has nearly 600 club appearances between Arsenal and Chelsea and has 107 caps for the England senior side. Manchester United need experience to carry them next season, as well as a handful of youthful players, and Cole could be the perfect addition to help those younger players thrive.
2) Winner
Cole has won almost everything in club football – he has collected three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups, three Community Shields, a League Cup, a Champions League and a Europa League. He has also been included in the Premier League Team of the Season four times.
United need to adopt a winner’s mentality next season.
3) First choice
With Patrice Evra leaving, supposedly, and Alex Buttner about as popular as Merseyside up at Old Trafford, United need a left-back to be their first choice. Cole seems the perfect fit for the club, and would certainly be first choice.
4) Free transfer
He’s a freebie come the summer, which makes the deal all the more tempting.