West Ham United have announced the free signing of former Hammers star Joe Cole from Liverpool on an 18-month deal.
------------------------------------------------------------
Predict result and win big with Soccer6
------------------------------------------------------------
Cole started his career at Upton Park in 1994 with the youth team and went on to make 126 first-team appearances for east London club.
Cole failed to impress during his time at Anfield, though, having previously enjoyed seven successful years at Chelsea.
A loan spell with French side Lille followed last season where he appeared to recapture his best form.
However, after only a handful of appearances under new Reds boss Brendan Rodgers this season, the former England international was allowed to leave the club to return to West Ham.
"It is a great move for me," the 31-year-old told the club's official website after completing his deal on Friday. "Coming back here brings back all the memories of the pitches I learnt how to play on.
"This is where I learnt my trade and I'm happy to have another chance to be here. I've always loved West Ham and I hope I can give the club a few memorable seasons.
"The timing was right for me to come back and I'm happy. I'm back in London and I'm delighted to be here. I want to be here and I want to make an impact.
"The place has not changed much to look at, but I think Sam has done a great job with the team. A few years ago, the club was in a bad way and Sam has done brilliantly.
"All in all, it will always be West Ham and the history will always be here and everywhere I go around the world, people love West Ham. Everywhere I go, people know me for having started here."
Cole did admit, however, that he might need a while to live up to former glories.
"Sam didn't have to sell me the club for me to come back. For me, I have had 18 months at Liverpool where I haven't played much football and Sam wants to play me," he added.
"I'm going to need games to get back to my best, but I want to play football and come here and help the team to make an impact.
"I could see from the outside what a great bunch of lads we have here and there is a great spirit. I'm excited."
------------------------------------------------------------
To comment on this story or to simply get in touch email us here.
Or you can post to our Facebook page here.
------------------------------------------------------------
Post A Comment!
Be the first to post a comment on this story