Joe Cole: 'I joined Lille to win trophies'

Joe Cole has revealed that he joined French champions Lille to add some silverware to his collection.

In what was one of the surprise transfers on deadline day, midfielder Cole completed a season-long move to northern France from Liverpool yesterday afternoon and has admitted that he is looking forward to a new challenge.

"I wanted a challenge from abroad," the 29-year-old told a press conference. "Lille is a beautiful club, a family club that plays well.

"I like intelligence in football. It will be an interesting experience for me.

"I think I'm going in the right direction. I'm here to help Lille by bringing my experience and the quality to win many trophies."

The switch has provided Cole with the opportunity of representing the club in the Champions League this season. The Mastiffs have been drawn alongside Inter Milan, CSKA Moscow and Trabzonspor in Group B.