Derby County have announced that former England and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has joined on a deal that runs until the end of the current campaign.

Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard Reunited at Derby County

The 38-year-old has returned to the English game after an absence which saw him play in Italy and the USA for Roma and LA Galaxy respectively.

Cole’s CV is stacked with accolades, ranging from Premier League titles to a Champions League winners medal. With Derby pushing for promotion from the Championship, his experience will be a valuable asset.

This experience was undoubtedly a factor which former teammate and now manager Frank Lampard has taken into account. Having played with Cole for both club and country, Lampard was aware of Cole’s value.

“He’s a fantastic player, a quality left-back, and he also brings great experience to the dressing room,” is what the manager told the official club website earlier today.

Cole will be the oldest player to feature in the Championship this season. Fans of the game will know, however, that this will not tarnish his performances in a white shirt. Lampard described Cole as being “in good shape”. This means that Championship wingers will have to be at their best to perform against the veteran.

Overall, this transfer has the potential to be a shrewd one. Lampard has brought in an experienced player who he can rely on to give 100%. Cole may not be able to play week-in-week-out, but his dressing room presence will be key.

Derby currently sit in sixth-place in the second tier and, with the signing of Cole, the Rams will have the wind in their sails. This weekend, they take on Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup, which will be a prime chance for Cole to make his debut.

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