ASHLEY COLE

ASHLEY COLE

Chelsea's transfer deadline day signing in August 2006 took the total of England internationals in the squad to six and the number of England left-backs to two.

The Blues had lost a world class defender in William Gallas to Arsenal on the same day but made sure that was adequately compensated by the player frequently described as the best in his position.

ASHLEY COLE

ASHLEY COLE

He made his Chelsea debut against Werder Bremen at Stamford Bridge in September. His transfer had involved £5 million plus William Gallas going the other way.

A fabulous athlete who loves to go forward, he admitted at the season's end that Blues fans had yet to see him at his very best, a series of small injures having hindered the settling process. Healthy competition with Wayne Bridge for the Chelsea and England left-back shirt is set to continue

ASHLEY COLE