Former England international reveals injury struggles and the ‘miracle’ move abroad he wishes he had made

In a candid interview on John Obi Mikel’s podcast, ‘The Obi One,’ former England international Joe Cole bares his soul, expressing regret over his move from Chelsea to Liverpool in 2010. Cole, who joined Liverpool on a free transfer, admits, “I never should have signed for Liverpool; I wish I hadn’t signed.”

The talented midfielder, now retired, reflects on a career marred by a serious knee injury suffered at Southend in 2009, leading to his departure from Chelsea. He discloses that Chelsea, from a business perspective, rightfully halted contract negotiations after his knee injury. Despite his initial struggles, Cole managed to impress during a loan spell at Lille before returning to Liverpool under Brendan Rodgers. However, his time at Anfield proved challenging, and within six months of Rodgers’ tenure, he was allowed to leave for West Ham.

Cole details the pivotal moments when he realized his body was failing him, contributing to his decision to depart Liverpool. He speaks of a back injury during a title-deciding match at Old Trafford, confessing, “I really wrecked myself. That’s how my body was after it.”

Reflecting on his decision to join Liverpool over Tottenham, Cole acknowledges the difficulties he faced at Anfield but emphasizes the club’s stature globally. Despite the challenges, he wishes he had chosen to play abroad, particularly in a warmer climate, citing the positive impact of playing in the heat on his knee. Cole expresses that his time in the United States was like a “miracle,” allowing him to manage his injuries and extend his playing career.

With a tinge of regret, he muses, “If I hadn’t done my knee at Southend, and I could have had another five, six, or seven years at Chelsea, I think I would have won the Champions League with the lads in 2012.”

In a career filled with highs and lows, Cole’s story unfolds as a testament to the unpredictable nature of professional football and the complex decisions players face in navigating their careers.