Cole criticises lack of managerial opportunities in England

Cole criticises lack of managerial opportunities in England

Ashley Cole has opened up on his ‘leap of faith’ with Cesena after criticising a lack of opportunities in England.

The former Arsenal and Chelsea defender has taken his first managerial role in Italy, taking charge of the Serie B side last month, on a deal until the end of the season.

Cole has been tasked with leading the second-tier side to promotion, with Cesena currently eighth in the Serie B table. The 45-year-old has won one of his first four league fixtures but is embracing the challenge on the continent.

Discussing his first venture into the dug-out, Cole said he had been frustrated by a lack of opportunities in English football.

“I was getting kind of discouraged by a lack of opportunities, from some clubs in England I spoke to,” Cole told BBC Sport.

“They like to throw the ‘you don’t have experience’ line. And I’m like, I get what you’re saying, I agree – but how am I going to get experience?

“That’s the battle you have to fight as a number two for six or seven years – you have to take a leap of faith, but a club also has to take a leap of faith.

“I don’t think there are too many black English coaches working in Italy, so yes, it is a massive leap of faith from them and I’m very proud to be here.

“It is a great place to be and to start. I’m glad I’m back. We’re going to do something different – a bit special.”

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