Cole denies greed motivated move to Chelsea

England full-back Ashley Cole denied yesterday his drawn out and often acrimonious transfer from Arsenal to billionaire-backed Chelsea had been motivated by money.

Speaking after his first full training session since joining the champions from their north London rivals, Cole said: "I am not a greedy person. I've not come here for the money. I've come here to win things.

"It's got nothing to do with money and greed or loyalty."

The 25-year-old left-back, who grew up an Arsenal fan and had always played for them, has had an awkward relationship with the club hierarchy since he was caught talking secretly to Chelsea 18 months ago, in a much-publicised "tapping-up" scandal.

He said yesterday the transfer would "bring a new lease of life and a new challenge. You'll see a new Ashley Cole," he forecast.

Both Cole and his new manager Jose Mourinho said they never believed the transfer, one of the most protracted in Premier League history, would go through.

It was eventually concluded, with special permission, well into the small hours of the morning after the transfer deadline had passed last week.

Chelsea paid five million pounds and sent France defender William Gallas to Arsenal in the transfer deal.

Mourinho said yesterday that Cole could make his debut at home to Charlton today.

"We have three home games this week so for sure he will make his debut at home," Mourinho said.

Chelsea meet Werder Bremen in their Champions League opener on Tuesday and Liverpool on September 17.