Cole growing tired of bit-part role at Bridge

JOE COLE is worried about his long-term future at Chelsea on the eve of their crucial clash against Manchester United, writes Simon Johnson.

The England midfielder has 18 months left on his deal at the club and has yet to be reassured he will be given a new one.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is hoping to exploit the situation by trying to sign the 27-year-old in the summer.

Cole has grown frustrated at being constantly subbed by manager Luiz Felipe Scolari this term and has only completed the full 90 minutes once.

That was against United in September and he showed his disappointment when he was taken off for the 12th game in a row against Southend in the FA Cup on Saturday.

Cole is a huge admirer of Redknapp having started his professional career under him when he was in charge of West Ham. Ideally, Redknapp would like to try and sign him this month but knows the end of the season will be more likely.

Cole has consistently stated he wants to stay at Chelsea for the rest of his career but is unsure whether the club or the manager feels the same.

The uncertainty is the last thing any Chelsea player needs ahead of a vital match against their title rivals.