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Where does this much maligned Liverpool star fit into Dalglish’s plans?

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With Charlie Adam possibly moving from Blackpool to Liverpool, Alberto Aquilani staying at the club for the moment, Steven Gerrard returning to full fitness after groin surgery, the signing of Jordan Henderson, the pursuit of Stewart Downing, the presence of Raul Meireles and Maxi Rodriguez in the squad, it is a legitimate question to ask where the much maligned Joe Cole would fit into all of this.

There was much fanfare for the England international after he arrived last summer but a season dogged by poor form, injuries and suspensions has meant his move up to Liverpool has been nothing short of a nightmare. His sizeable signing on fee, and his large wages, have meant the transfer has been anything but free as it was purported when he moved from Chelsea last July.

With FSG principal owner John W Henry expressing his dismay at the sizeable wage bill at the club going on aging, average players, and the fact that even new manager Kenny Dalglish couldn’t inspire the 30 year old to better form at the end of last season, the prevailing wisdom has been that Englishman would depart for pasture’s new this summer.

Still, as pre-season approaches, the lack of speculation surrounding his depature has been notable. Tottenham, West Ham and QPR have all been linked to Cole but none as yet have made their interest formal. QPR must probably don’t have the money to satisfy Joe’s wage demands, Harry at Spurs is more concerned with keeping his star players such as Luka Modric rather than adding players, while I doubt the 30 year old is keen on playing in the Championship with his old club.

It seems then that, just like Alberto Aquilani, he is stuck in limbo. With Liverpool pursuing central midfielders and wingers in the transfer market, the likelihood of Cole getting any game time next season is small. For the best interests of his career, the best thing for him would be to move on to a new club and get some first team football as he approaches the end of his career.

For Liverpool, his sizeable wages, his age, and the fact he would only be a squad player, means it is in their best interest to move him on too. It would free up funds in regards to wages and allow a player, who lacks confidence and games, to go somewhere else where he can perhaps regain his love for the game.

The problem at the moment is who will take him? As a player I have always admired Joe Cole for the very fact he was one of the very few English players who looked to do things differently. He had skill and flair unlike most in the white and blue of his country and I must admit that like many, I thought his transfer to the Reds would be a good move for him and the club.

Unfortunately though, things just haven’t worked out. Sometimes it just happens in life and sport, and hopefully a solution can be found regarding his future sooner rather than later.

Written by David Tully for Live4Liverpool.com. Follow us on twitter @live4Liverpool or like us on Facebook

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  • Rafa says:

    Cole should, and will, be offloaded this summer. He’s a nice guy who has put in the effort. I have nothing but praise for his commitment, but his contribution has not been worthy of his inclusion next season. Good luck Joe, I’m sure you’ll flourish elsewhere.

  • Dave says:

    QPR don’t have enough money enough money to satisfy his wage demands? They’re the second richest club in the UK you fool!

  • liam says:

    joe cole is for us what torres is now for chelsea no doubt about the players quality just injury has ruined there career

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