Monday, August 31, 2009

2010 is last bid for glory - Cole

International Friendly: England v Slovenia
Venue: Wembley Stadium, London Date: Saturday, 5 September KO: 1730 BST
Coverage: Live on ITV1 and BBC Radio 5 live


Ashley Cole
Cole played most of England's recent 2-2 draw against the Netherlands

England defender Ashley Cole believes the World Cup in 2010 could be the last chance for him and many of his team-mates to win an international trophy.

Fabio Capello's men can secure their place at the finals in South Africa with a win over Croatia on 9 September.

"We've all grown up. We've started to realise that this could be our last tournament," said the 28-year-old.

"I've got good young players coming up in my position. I think it's the same for a lot of players."

John Terry, 28, Steven Gerrard, 29, Rio Ferdinand, 30, Frank Lampard, 31, and David Beckham, 34, may also face their final chance to win on the biggest stage.

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They and Cole started England's quarter-final defeat by Portugal at the World Cup finals in 2006.

England were absent from last summer's European Championships after losing 3-2 to Croatia in their final qualifying match at Wembley.

But Chelsea left-back Cole, who was an unused substitute in the defeat, believes the experience will help England close out a successful campaign.

"We have to learn from that. If you don't perform on the day you can get turned over," he said.

"We know how big the game is for us this time. They will want to come to Wembley and beat us again."

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