The former England defender took his first management job with Italian second-tier side Cesena last month and explained that he decided to take "a massive leap of faith" as he was frustrated at not getting a chance in the English game.

Cole, who has previously worked on the coaching staff at Everton, Birmingham City and England's Under-21 side, told BBC Sport: "I was getting kind of discouraged by a lack of opportunities, from some clubs in England I spoke to.

"They like to throw the, 'You don't have experience', line. And I'm like, I get what you're saying, I agree - but how am I going to get experience?

"That's the battle you have to fight as a number two for six or seven years - you have to take a leap of faith, but a club also has to take a leap of faith.

"I don't think there are too many black English coaches working in Italy, so yes, it is a massive leap of faith from them and I'm very proud to be here.

"It is a great place to be and to start. I'm glad I'm back. We're going to do something different - a bit special."

Cole - who won three Premier League titles and 107 England caps during a stellar playing career - explained that he doesn't see himself as superior to anyone at Cesena and has embraced the club's underdog spirit.

The former Arsenal and Chelsea full-back said: "I don't see myself above anyone at this club. Of course I have to be the leader of the group, but I'll pick up a cone.

"I liked that the owners have a similar background to me - hard work, graft, underdogs nobody believed in - but they created a really successful business.

"They also wanted someone to believe in them and give them a chance."