Cole open to Lille extension

Lille midfielder Joe Cole is considering staying at the Ligue 1 outfit once his loan deal expires at the end of the season.

The 30-year-old joined the French champions from Liverpool in August and has enjoyed a good start to the latest chapter in his fluttering career.

“I am very happy because I had not played for a long time and it is sometimes difficult to find your form,” Cole told France Football.

“But I’m happy with my fitness. That said, I want to improve. I am not at my best, like when I was at Chelsea.”

“For now, I am very happy here, my family is happy.

“Throughout my career I have never negotiated my contract during the season.”

“When May comes, we will sit down and discuss. If I’m still happy here, I’ll stay.”

Asked whether money would influence his decision to stay, Cole preferred to focus on the football.

“I don’t think about it; I’m focused on football,” Cole said.

“If my family is happy and I am happy, we will speak in May. Lille must be happy too. We’ll see in May.”

Lille have struggled in the Champions League this season as they sit bottom of Group B, but Cole hopes for better luck next Tuesday when they play Russian side CSKA Moscow.

“We have not had much luck. I know we have been criticised,” Cole said.

“But I trust my teammates and coach. We can go (to CSKA Moscow) and win. We can get a great victory for the club.”

“I just try to play well. If I am called I will be very happy. I love playing for my country. If not, I will do everything to win trophies for Lille.”

David Beckham has long been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, and Cole believes the former Manchester United man has the quality to succeed in France.

“I have not seen much of his play since he moved to America,” said Cole.

“He’s a fantastic player, technical and has never relied on speed. I think he’s still the player he was.”

Lille take on Toulouse away from home on Friday in Ligue 1 and they are currently third in the championship race.