Ashley Cole says he's joined LA Galaxy to play.

The ex-Chelsea and Arsenal defender terminated his contract with Roma by mutual consent last month bringing to an end a disappointing 18-month spell in the Italian capital.

Before signing for Roma in 2014 Cole rejected advances from MLS, stating at the time that he was "not ready to relax on a beach yet", but he insists he is not there to put his feet up in the twilight of his career.

"I am not going to come here and defend myself," Cole said when asked about those remarks. "I did say it but it was taken out of context.

"Those words did come out of my mouth, but I was at a new team, Roma, and I had to tell the fans I was there to win. It was taken out of context.

"I hope I can change some the views you might have of me here.

"I have come here to win trophies, not to sit on the beach. I am not a diva or egotistical. I don't think I am better than anyone else and I will work as hard as I can."