Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has told midfielder Joe Cole to have more confidence in his ability after the early days of his career at a new club have not gone as planned.
The 29-year old arrived at Anfield in the summer from Chelsea with big plans but it hasn't quite worked out he wanted. But Hodgson has urged him not to stress and is confident his form will return in good time.
"Joe has got to come to terms with the fact he has come here after an unsuccessful period at Chelsea with high hopes of taking Liverpool by storm but, unfortunately, it has not worked out like that. But that's life," Hodgson said.
"He should have great confidence in his ability because he is a very good footballer. He should be looking to convince myself and everyone else that he is a player who can help Liverpool win. He couldn't say that has been the case so far.
"But he is training well and his confidence is returning. A good game and a goal or two could turn things around. But our group is getting stronger and the only thing I could say at the moment is, 'We are happy to have you, Joe, but I can't offer you anything more than a chance'.
"It is up to him to take that chance when it comes along. I have not lost faith in him. But I can't deny that the start he would have liked has not materialised."
