Cole named Cesena head coach until end of season

Ashley Cole is set to embark on his first senior managerial role, after being named head coach of Italian side Cesena.

The former England defender has been appointed by the Serie B outfit in a deal until the end of the season.

Since his retirement in 2019, Cole has enjoyed coaching spells with Derby County, Everton, Birmingham City and England, while also assisting the Young Lions to back-to-back European Under-21 Championship titles alongside Lee Carsley.

The 45-year-old takes charge of a Cesena side sitting eighth in Serie B, albeit on a winless run of seven matches that led to the departure of Michele Mignani.