Source: Eurosport
Cole delighted to be back
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. [LNB] 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. But Cole's successful return after 10 months out injured with knee ligament damage is set to spark Chelsea into offering him a new deal as soon as possible. [LNB] "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."[LNB] He added: "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.[LNB] "Everyone looks fresh and everyone is happy they are all playing games. We look sharp. [LNB] "I just try and do my best and enjoy my football. I genuinely love playing the game. It was brilliant just to be out there again. But I enjoyed playing in a more central role - it was the first time in my career. [LNB] "I started off playing youth-team football in that position and then moved out to the wing. I just enjoy playing. I am very lucky to play for Chelsea and very lucky to play for England and there is so much to look forward to over the next few months. [LNB] "It is a great time. I am so excited about playing football again. Sometimes it takes something like that, when you are out for so long, to make you realise. Every day I go into training is a blessing. I just love it and I am enjoying being back."
