Cole thrilled with England award

08 February 2011 09:00
Ashley Cole believes he is finally being appreciated by fans after being voted England's player of the year for 2010 by supporters.

Fans, in a poll on www.thefa.com, voted for the Chelsea defender after an outstanding and consistent level of performances for his country. It was the perfect tonic for Cole ahead of becoming England's most capped full-back in the friendly international against Denmark in Copenhagen. He will move onto 87 caps - one more than Kenny Sansom.

Cole told FATV: "I'm very privileged and proud and thankful to the fans. It's been hard for me at times, but now I think I've got their appreciation and I'm very grateful.

"It feels amazing to win the award. It came as a big surprise to me. I never thought I would get this award with all the other players who were in the running. I never thought it would be me."

Source: PA