Derby release Ashley Cole

Derby County has confirmed that they have released Ashley Cole from the club. The 38 year old joined Derby on a short term deal until the end of the season back in January, and even started the Championship play-off final against Aston Villa. Alas, despite all of that, it seems like there is no intention from the club to keep him on the books. The Rams lost in the final against Villa, ensuring that they would be playing second tier football once again next season.

Some fans have been left to question whether or not Cole will end up retiring, given his age. He is widely considered to be one of the best English defenders of his generation, and at one point, he was widely regarded as one of the best defenders in world football. Despite that, it has been clear and obvious to see a decline in his abilities in the last few years.