Chelsea legend Ashley Cole steps down as England U-21 assistant coach after 5 yrs

Former England and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has stepped down from his role as assistant coach of the England Under-21 team after five years. Cole, who joined in 2021, helped the team win consecutive European Under-21 Championships in 2023 and 2025 while working alongside manager Lee Carsley. Cole also assisted Carsley when he temporarily managed the England senior team.