Cole vows to step up a gear to keep Chelsea berth

Chelsea’s midfield star Joe Cole on Monday vowed to step up a gear to maintain his berth in Luiz Felipe Scolari’s multi-million Stamford Bridge outfit.

“When you join a big club you have to expect competition. I have always thrived on it,” said Cole, who scored a goal in his side’s 4-0 demolition of Portsmouth on Saturday.

“I have always been up against big players at the club, I love competing and learning from them,” the England star added.

“I know I have to step it up again. Football is a game that doesn’t stay still. I performed well last season and the fans voted me player of the year, but that’s all in the past now.”

Cole, 26, currently in contract talks, put aside fears that Scolari’s new boys – such as Deco, who also netted on Saturday, and the possible signing of position rival Robinho – may dethrone him and pledged his future to the club.

“I love it here, the club wants to sign me and there won’t be any problems on that front,” he said.

“I just want to concentrate on my performances and play … but I will be a Chelsea player for the rest of my career.”