Paolo di Canio says Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole was the best prospect he ever played with.

Cole has struggled for form in his first season at Anfield.

His former West Ham United teammate Di Canio recalled: "I played with Alessandro del Piero when he was Cole's age. In terms of ability they are similar, though perhaps Cole has an edge.

"I also played with Roberto Baggio and, I can tell you, Cole is a stronger version of Baggio."

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