Ashley Cole Reveals He Wants to Sign New Chelsea Contract

Ashley Cole has spoken of his desire to sign a new contract with Chelsea.

The 32-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge from Arsenal in 2006, and wishes to build upon the one-year extension he signed during the summer, per Chris Richards of the Mirror:

"

I hope to stay for longer.

I have had a great time here, a great career here and, of course, I'd love to stay if they still want me. There is going to be a time when they will have to replace me.

"

Cole, who is still regarded as one of the best left-backs on the planet by many, has enjoyed great success since moving across London.

The Englishman has won every trophy possible at club level in the blue shirt, racking up a Premier League triumph, four FA Cup victories, a League Cup medal and historic wins in both the Champions League and Europa League.

His success is perhaps sweetened by the knowledge that Arsenal have failed to land a trophy since his departure, but as Cole works through his seventh season with Chelsea, it is the Gunners who currently lead the way in the Premier League.

Cole’s current contract expires at the end of the season, and Jose Mourinho’s side have long been linked with a move for Southampton wonderkid Luke Shaw, per Jack Wilson of the Express. Even at the age of 18, the rapidly improving full-back would represent a fine replacement for Chelsea's veteran defender.

Even so, Cole feels his immediate replacement will come from within the club, per Richards' report. "I have Ryan Bertrand in my place and one day I'm going to want to watch him play, so the time will come when I will finish my career."

With 10 appearances to his name this season, per Who Scored, it’s clear Cole is still a major part of Mourinho’s plans. His willingness to sign a new contract should be welcomed by Chelsea, especially at this time of transition for the club.

As young players continue to break into the team, the likes of Cole, John Terry and Frank Lampard must utilise their experience and leadership skills to help the emerging talents around them.

Ditching the dutiful left-back so readily would be an unfitting way for his Chelsea career to end.

Follow @Nakerman