Joe Cole itching to become a key member of Tony Mowbray's attacking Sky Blues - The Coventry Observer

Joe Cole itching to become a key member of Tony Mowbray's attacking Sky Blues

Coventry Editorial 19th Oct, 2015 Updated: 28th Oct, 2016   0

NEW Sky Blues signing Joe Cole has revealed the chance to play under experienced manager Tony Mowbray was one of the key reasons behind his shock move to the Ricoh Arena.

The former England midfielder shocked the football world last Friday after agreeing to a move to the third tier of English football.

The 33-year-old moved to the Sky Blues on a 35-day loan from Premier League side Aston Villa where he has made just one first team appearance under Tim Sherwood in the League Cup.

He will remain at the Ricoh until November 22 and is eligible to play in the FA Cup when the Sky Blues enter the first round stage of the competition on November 7.




Cole’s main objective is to get games under his belt and he is looking forward to becoming part of an attacking forward line that has already scored 20 goals in 12 appearances so far this season in League One.

“I was looking at options and the main thing was that we needed a team that can play football the right way,” said Cole, whose partner gave birth to their third child on Sunday.


“I spoke to Tony and he just impressed me. I knew of his reputation as a manager who likes to pass it and pop it about.  What was vital for me was the style of football.

“I spoke to him and he seemed like a genuine guy and we got on. We have got the same philosophy on football and I think that’s important.

“Primarily it’s about playing football because I want to compete on a Tuesday and on a Saturday. I want to play proper football – I want to compete. I want the buzz of playing again.

“If I was coming for the money I wouldn’t be coming here that’s for sure. I’ve been playing in an era where we’re very lucky as footballers and we appreciate that.

“Most of us come from council estates and working class backgrounds. We have an opportunity to live a good life and allow your family to live a good life.

“I want to be in the dressing room looking forward to a game, that’s important for footballers.

“I want to just try and influence the game and win football matches and after that help the young players with my experience.”

Many football fans across the country were surprised at Cole’s decision to drop down to League One despite having a strong reputation in the game.

And Cole, who has previously played for the likes of West Ham, Chelsea and Liverpool, knows his reputation goes out of the window the second he steps onto the pitch in a Sky Blues shirt.

“You’re a long time retired in this game and it doesn’t matter what your name is and what you’ve done in the game, when you step out there and play against other footballers nothing matters.

“Regardless of the level I just want to play competitive football. I want to play for the right team and for the right manager who plays the right way.

“I’ve played against Coventry in the Premier League when they were there with West Ham.

“I’ve never actually played at the Ricoh. I played at Highfield Road many times so I’m looking forward to it.

“League One is competitive football. So is League Two, the Championship and the foreign leagues, but I just think under-21 football isn’t the best thing to prepare you for playing.

“It’s going to be tough because I’ve not played in such a long time but I’m sure that once I shake the cobwebs off I’ll be back to myself and I’m looking forward to it.”

Cole’s stay at the Ricoh will last just 35 days, but he is keeping his options open and not ruling out an extended period with the Sky Blues after his initial loan period ends.

“One thing I’ve learnt from football is that you only think of the next game,” he added. “I know it’s boring bit anything can happen in football.

“In the first couple of games I will need to shake the cobwebs off and actually get used to playing competitive football.

“I’m just excited that I’ve got a game to play. I think it’s seven games I’ve got in the 35 days. We’ll review it after that and see where everyone is.”

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