Ashley Cole is dreaming of becoming an England centurion in the Euro 2012 final, with the full-back set to earn his 98th cap against Italy on Sunday.
Full-back setting his sights on 100th cap and Euro glory
Ashley Cole is dreaming of becoming an England centurion in the Euro 2012 final, with the full-back set to earn his 98th cap against Italy on Sunday.
The 31-year-old is looking to join an elite group that has just five members at present.
Since making his senior debut against Albania in 2001, Cole has been a virtual ever-present on the left side of England's back four.
Over a decade of loyal service to his country has seen him grace three World Cups and two European Championships.
He is hoping that his latest showing at a major tournament sees him claim his first international prize - allowing him to pass a personal landmark in the process.
Lucky
"When you're growing up and thinking about being a footballer, you want to win as many caps and play as many games as you can," said Cole.
"I've been lucky enough to play 97 times and hopefully, you never know, I will get to 100 in the final, which would be amazing, what little kids' dreams are made of.
"I wouldn't have believed that when I was a 16-year-old coming through the Arsenal youth team.
"I just love football. I've always enjoyed doing it. Being outside with my mates, getting really muddy and dirty and smelly. It's something I always loved.
"I'm so lucky to have had the career I've had and play with so many amazing players."
Cole has won countless honours at club level with Arsenal and Chelsea - including last season's UEFA Champions League - but admits European Championship glory would represent a career high.
Success
He said: "Winning Euro 2012 would top the lot.
"I've won the Champions League, I've won the league with both Chelsea and Arsenal.
"To win something with England would sum up my career. Not to win something with your country would be sad. You want to win for the fans, for your country, for the nation.
"Reaching a semi-final wouldn't be a success either. You come to every tournament to win it.
"None of these players are going to settle for a semi-final."
