England caretaker coach Stuart Peace isn't ready to write-off Chelsea fullback Ashley Cole.

Pearce is certain the Stepney-born star will soon bounce back after difficult season.

"He is an outstanding talent," Pearce said. "I have a great deal of respect for him because the fact I played left-back means I understand the position.

"He is the best left-back that has ever played for England. That is a fact.

"It is very difficult to maintain form over decades. You have ups and downs.

"He has consistently been a fantastic member of this squad and hopefully that continues for a long time to come because the one thing I know about Ash is he will come out fighting and will be back in the Chelsea side very quickly."