Joe Cole sets his sights on England return

Sep 9 2011 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo

JOE COLE believes his move to French champions Lille can put him back in contention for a place in the England squad.

The 29-year-old last week made the move on a season-long loan from Liverpool, where he made only 11 league appearances last season and failed to impress.

But the former Chelsea player is confident he can recapture his best form in France.

He said: “In 10 games I’ll be back playing my best football and I see no reason why I won’t get back in the (England) team.”

Cole (right) has not appeared for his country since last summer’s World Cup but has 56 caps to his name.

His Liverpool career did not get back on track after he was sent off against Arsenal on his league debut.

“It didn’t work out at Liverpool and I can’t fault them one bit,” Cole said.

“I wouldn’t blame anyone. There are many reasons and I knew from fairly early on that things would be difficult.

“This offer excited me. It looks a great club. They did the double last season and I wanted this experience to test myself in the French league.

“I’ve won everything in England and had a successful career. Ever since I was a young lad, I wanted the opportunity to play abroad.”