Ashley Cole: Roma signing says English players afraid to go abroad

Former Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole believes English players are afraid of moving to a foreign club. 

The 33-year-old ex-England international has joined Italian side Roma after leaving Chelsea when his contract expired with the Blues.

"English players are probably afraid to come abroad, they're in a comfort zone in England," said the left-back.

Only one of England's 2014 World Cup squad - Celtic keeper Fraser Forster - does not play in the Premier League.

Cole said the move to Serie A gave him the chance to "try a different language, culture and way of living".

Chelsea chose not to offer Cole a new deal but the player insisted he still had a "good relationship" with Blues boss Jose Mourinho.

Cole has signed a two-year deal with Roma, who will play in this season's Champions League after finishing second to Juventus in Serie A.

Speaking at his first news conference as a Roma player, he added: "I'm not afraid of pressure. I noticed the fans' passion and love as soon as I landed. I'm going to enjoy my time here."