It is a mistake not taking him to Brazil. Had vg games v Liverpool and Atletico away, and an OK game at home, in the space of a week when he had not played all season.
In two minds. The points you make are valid, plus he is a big game player with bags of experience and well rested this season). That said, I think for the first time in a while, there is a general belief from the England fans that there is no chance of doing well/winning (unlike the normal frenzy / hype that things could be different). With that in mind (and possibly only 3/4 games anyway) maybe this is the ideal opportunity to "ready" a squad for the Euros and 2018 WC?
The L.B one is a weird one as you could make a case for Cole being 1st, 2nd or 3rd choice for that slot. Baines has hardly tied the position down and Shaw is so raw. Personally I'd have taken Cole this time as I don't like to have an eye on the next tournament. Shaw looks a good player but has plenty of time. A blend of youth an experience is important and we'll be taking a fair few youth anyway with probably Barkley, Sterling etc
The reason I am surprised is the fact that I am convinced given 2 or 3 seasons Luke Shaw will be playing as a winger. He attacks like one and defends like one. Nevertheless, I obviously think not taking Cole was a mistake. Lest we forget that Leighton Baines is yet to face world class opposition as well. The England defense looks rather inexperienced now. Still, I guess with no expectations there can be no disappointment.
Should have been one of the first names in the XI, never mind the squad. He's still one of the best in world, shocked he's been left out.
I think what is slightly worrying from an England perspective is that Roy must think that giving Shaw (and others probably) some tournament experience is better than actually having the most able bodies out there to do the job in this tournament. It's almost as if he's written off this tournament in my eyes. He can't think we can win it (Nor do I but...) Cole has bags and bags of England and C.L experience that Baines and Shaw don't even come close to having and if we managed to get to say the quarters - that's where big game experience comes in. When you're not the best side in the comp, it's top level experience and tactical nouse that can drag you through.
Because Azpilicueta was just playing that well. It probably came as a shock to Jose too. In terms of England there is absolutely no doubt that Cole should be in the squad.
And Ivanovic? Azpil is even better (I agree he is good at left back) on the right. If Jose had any faith in Cole, he wouldn't have switched him over from the right surely?
He had that one bad game against Newcastle i think it was and changed to Azpi/Iva. It worked so well Jose decided to keep it. He had faith in him by playing in our biggest games of the season (Liverpool & Atletico) and Cole definitely repaid that IMO.
Think he likes Ivan due to his ability at set plays as much as anything. Can't always base national sides on who is playing for their clubs as the better players tend to be at better clubs where there is more competition. Are Nigeria not going to pick their best player (Mikel) because he hasn't played much at Chelsea this year? Obviously no. Little bit concerned by the lack of national or C.L experience of some of these players.
Just saying the reason Cole is playing is because he's at a big club with a big squad of internationals. Cole would be a regular at most other clubs so not really fair to not pick some players due to that kind of situation. Various factors need to be considered. It's open for debate but Id have taken Cole and Baines this time and used Shaw through the next qualifiers. if (and BIG if) we got to the final and Baines got injureD, who would you rather bring on? The C.L winner or the 18 year who has never played a game of note outside the P.L?
I think it is just rumours tbf, but if he was to sign for you i'd definitely be disappointed, as i would be if he was to sign for anybody else! Still think we can get one more season out of him. He showed towards the end when he started playing how good he still is.
Still an excellent player and would give you much needed CL experience. Wont happen but would be a great signing for anyone. Amazing big game temperament v Ronaldo, Messi, Robben etc
Wouldn't be happy of course but he's been a great servant so wish him well. Can't see it though as he's on massive money with us and can't see Liverpool paying anywhere near that now they have FFP considerations etc. He'll get big money offers in Europe, America and suspect he'll go abroad for a big pay day. He hasn't a lot to hang around here for as he said himself when addressing why he hadn't shaved the beard off!!
Ashley Cole should stay at chelsea, if not just out of kindness. ..I mean its Ashley Cole! ! Where else is he going to go?!? France? Spain? He's a London boy if there ever was one I dont even think man utd would be a good fit for him...
