During the heyday of his career with Chelsea, Ashley Cole was regarded as one of the best defenders in the world. He is also arguably one of the most talented English players of the past generation. However, off the field, Cole does not really enjoy a good reputation, with many people disliking him. The following are just some of the reasons why this is the case.
1. His decision to leave Arsenal and join Chelsea in 2006
Cole, who helped the Gunners to win two Premier League titles and who was part of Arsene Wenger’s famous “Invincibles” side during the 2003-04 season, opted to join Chelsea in 2006. This was not really received well by Arsenal fans especially considering that he joined a direct rival to the Gunners. This also led to him being dubbed “Cashley Cole”.
2. His infidelities
In 2008 reports surfaced that Cole had been cheating on his former wife Cheryl Cole. In spite of his former spouse forgiving him after the first time, he was again reportedly cheating on his wife in 2010 and this ultimately would lead to their marriage ending during that same year. Cole certainly cannot complain that he was not given an opportunity to redeem himself in the relationship.
3. His decision to side with John Terry during Anton Ferdinand race row
In 2011, John Terry was accused of having racially abused Anton Ferdinand (brother of Manchester United legend Rio) during a Premier League game between Chelsea and QPR. During Terry’s trial, Cole served as part of the ex-Chelsea captain’s defence. Rio Ferdinand has revealed that Cole’s decision to back Terry during the trial led to him ending his friendship with his former England team-mate.
Ferdinand, who was childhood friends with Cole, revealed that he was not even warned by Cole that he would be standing in defence of Terry.
