LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 17: Joe Cole of West Ham United celebrates his goal during the Barclays Premier League match between West Ham United and Cardiff City at the Bolyen Ground on August 17, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Former England national team midfielder Joe Cole has signed with the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the North American Soccer League (NASL).
Cole, 34, a former player for West Ham and Chelsea, moved to League One Coventry City on a free transfer from Aston Villa in January after an initial loan move. His contract expires in the summer.
“I’ve always envisaged playing in the United States at some point in my life,” said Cole. “My family and I came out to visit a few months ago and everyone was lovely. They really made us feel welcomed.”
Cole has scored twice in 22 appearances for Coventry. Manager Tony Mowbray has confirmed he is set to finalize a switch to the second tier of U.S. Soccer.
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“Joe’s going to join Tampa Bay and it might happen pretty quickly if he can get international clearance,” Mowbray told the Coventry Telegraph. “I would have liked to have kept Joe who I think has proven his fitness and worth to the team. He’s a fantastic character around our building – no airs and graces, not looking for favors or extra days off.
Mowbray also stated that there remains a possibility, however, that he could bring Cole back to Coventry City’s Ricoh Arena on loan in October when the NASL season finishes.
“I think Joe can help us control football matches but he’s made his decision for his family, I think, and we wish him well because he’s been fantastic for our dressing room and this football club.”
Cole has 56 appearances for England and would play alongside former young superstar Freddy Adu if he completes his move to Tampa Bay. He also won the FA Cup three times during his eight-year spell at Chelsea after starting his career at West Ham United.
“I’m really excited,” Cole added. “My desire to win football matches is still there. I’m not coming for an extended holiday.”
PHOTO: LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 17: Joe Cole of West Ham United celebrates his goal during the Barclays Premier League match between West Ham United and Cardiff City at the Bolyen Ground on August 17, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
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