CARSON, Calif. – Ashley Cole is hopeful that he’ll be able to continue to represent the LA Galaxy in 2018.
Amid the Galaxy’s struggles in 2017, Cole’s presence has been a silver lining as the reliable outside back has racked up 28 appearances, scoring a goal and adding an assist while seeing time at defense and in central midfield. The veteran defender’s performance has made Cole an overwhelming favorite to take home the team’s Defender of the Year award.
By the time the 2018 season rolls around, the legendary English international will be 37-years-old, but Cole is ready to return if the Galaxy will have him.
“I want to be here. We’re speaking. [It's in] their court with me,” Cole told reporters after the Galaxy’s 3-0 victory over Minnesota United last Sunday. “There’s going to be a big change with the club, and I think maybe it will happen next season. If I’m in those plans, we’ll find out. Who knows? I’m 37, so maybe they want to look a little younger.”
As for when he’ll eventually hang up his boots, the defender who is undeniably the top outside back of his generation says that he’s got no plans to retire despite the difficult 2017 campaign.
“I don’t want to put a number on it. I’m just disappointed we’re losing, but I want to keep going until my legs actually give out. Thankfully they haven’t given up just yet,” Cole said. “My legs feel Okay. Maybe the head feels a little bit tired, but I’m enjoying football whether we win or lose. I love the game. I want to stop when my kind of heart finishes.”
