Ashley Cole has told Chelsea’s website he always wanted to stay at the club.
The England left-back recently signed a one-year extension to his contract at Stamford Bridge.
There had been much speculation about Cole’s future as his contract was due to expire at the end of the season.
He was reported to be in talks with Paris St-Germain and was also linked with the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City and Manchester United.
Cole said: “When you are going through this kind of thing, of course you always want to stay here.
“But it was also in my mind that I could be leaving a club where I have great memories, and have enjoyed great times.
“I feel I have a good relationship with the people at the club and the fans and it would have been sad if I had had to leave, so I am glad I have signed for one year.
“When I joined Chelsea I just wanted to try to be successful and win trophies and as player you don’t really realise how many games you play each season.
“But to play nearly 300 in total is brilliant for me, and hopefully I’ll play some more.”
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This post was last modified on 23/01/2013