It is an ambition of Ben Chilwell to emulate the career of a legendary left-back who brought a wealth of glory to the Stamford Bridge.
Ashley Cole remained a prominent figure in the Chelsea line-up throughout his eight years at the club, helping them to nine major trophies including both the Champions League and Europa League.
The left-back is the most decorated player in the history of the FA Cup with seven winners’ medals to his name.
Alongside Nicolas Anelka, he is one of the only two players to have won a domestic double with two clubs.
Cole remains a role model for the new generation of Chelsea as well as English players, and one such player is Ben Chilwell.
Chilwell, who arrived at Stamford Bridge on a €50 million move earlier this summer, is expected to make the left-back position his own and gradually become an important player in Frank Lampard’s team.
The 23-year-old suggests he has similar expectations from himself while revealing the advice he received from Cole prior to his move.
“Seeing the career that he [Cole] had here, obviously I wanted to emulate that, and still do,” the club’s official website quotes Chilwell.
“He just said: ‘Work hard’. I know it sounds pretty cliched, but he said the fans love players here who just want to work hard and who want to die for the badge.
“He said when he first came here he wanted to win for the club, he loved playing for Chelsea, and he said if I can take that on board, wanting to really love the club and to win for it, then I should have a great career here.”
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news about Ben Chilwell
Download our brand new App and follow your favorite players, clubs, and much more
