Cole’s steely balls

Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has hit back at his critics who claim he is a ‘show pony’ who doesn’t like to do the hard yards. The England international showed his silky skill in last Saturday’s 2-1 win over Manchester United with a cheeky back-heeled goal. It was typical Cole but magic moments like that have been rare in recent years. This has led to criticism of his ‘team ethic’ from some quarters. But Cole insists he works as hard as any winger in the game and the label of being a 'flair' player is simply unfair. "I have steel, I've got some balls," said the 28-year-old. "People who market me as just a flair player are a bit lazy. Come and watch me for five or six games. I don't think there is a winger or an attacking midfielder who works as hard as me.”