Wenger: Cole much happier now

Arsène Wenger has said that Arsenal and England left-back Ashley Cole is a much happier person now that he’s got some first team action under his belt.

Cole made a 25-minute cameo appearence against relegated Sunderland last week.

Wenger said: “With any player who is out for seven months, there is always a doubt that creeps into your mind.

“It is difficult to take. But you could see he is happier, freer.

“He is getting sharper all the time. He is physically behind his top, top level but he can get that through the game.

The timing for England is right, for us it is not bad but he might be a little short.

But at least you [England] will have a fresh player so there is some good news.”

Cole’s chances of appearing in the Champions League final against Barcelona is dependant on how well he has recovered, with another appearence against Manchester City tonight being an assessment of Cole’s fitness.

Wenger added: “I will leave the decision open knowing that he is a little bit behind physically.

“I don’t how quickly he will [recover] and what type of impression he will make in the next game at City.

“If he plays a part or the [whole] game against Wigan then there is still 10 days after that.”