Chelsea fullback Ashley Cole knows he will be booed relentlessly by his former Arsenal fans today.

For once this afternoon, Didier Drogba will not be the main target for home supporters' vitriol.

That will be Cole.

He told the News of the World: "Maybe some people's opinions have changed but you know what reaction you are going to get and you just have to deal with it.

"I've gotten used to it now. I've just got to concentrate on winning these important games. I achieved a lot at Arsenal and I know in my heart what I have done and what I contributed to that team.

"Arsenal was, of course, a huge part of my career - and a big part in my progression to England and getting so many caps so I'll always be thankful for that.

"I'll only have good things to say about Arsene Wenger, Pat Rice and the staff there because they started me off.

"And I also know I worked hard for that team, gave them my all and made history with them."