F
ormer Hammer Joe Cole will leave Coventry City at the end of the season to play in the United States it has been revealed.
The 34-year-old will join North American Soccer League side Tampa Bay Rowdies in Florida when his current short-term deal expires. But he will be playing in the NASL, a level below Major League Soccer (MLS).
Cole initially left Aston Villa for the League One club in November before completing his move to the Ricoh Arena on a free transfer in January.
“I would have liked to have kept Joe,” said City boss Tony Mowbray. “He has proved his fitness and worth to the team
“He’s a fantastic character. No airs and graces, not looking for favours or extra days off and has shown his football ability.
“He can help us control matches but he’s made his decision for his family, and we wish him well. It might happen pretty quickly if he can get international clearance.”
Cole, who scored twice in 22 Coventry appearances, is expected to sign a one-year deal with Tampa, with an option for another year. He was released by West Ham in May 2014 to join Paul Lambert at Villa on a two-year contract. But he started just four games for the Midlanders, as well as making 10 substitute appearances, before being allowed by then boss Tim Sherwood to link up with Tony Mowbray’s Coventry in October.
Good luck Joey.Loved that hour long piece he did on Sky & I think he was right that Slav would have got the best out of him instead of his time under Hippo that he said didn’t suit his style.
Joe is going to make an excellent coach. Hope when his American holiday is over he comes back to coach our West Ham academy kids and at some point further on our first team in the Olympic stadium.