Joe Cole signs for Liverpool on a free transfer

This week, the wait for Liverpool transfer news abruptly ended. First it was announced that Joe Cole had signed with the club on free transfer.  Apparently, it was the influence of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher during England’s World Cup run that convinced Cole, a longtime Londoner, to make the move up north.  Even more attractive than the polite pestering of the two England International’s was the aura of the “biggest club in the country” and their fabled pitch, Anfield:

“I thought about the Champions League semi in 2005 when I ran on to the field and the hairs on the back of my neck stood up,” said the ex-Chelsea star.

“I have played in London all my life. I could have stayed at Chelsea because the fans loved me and I won things, but I wanted to challenge myself and when I knew Liverpool were interested it was a no-brainer because they are the biggest club in the country.”

- Joe Cole via the BBC

Steven Gerrard commits his future to The Kop

“I wanted the chance to meet Roy Hodgson privately,” the 30-year-old told the club website. “I’m very impressed with his plans for the team.”

- Steven Gerrard via the BBC