Cole reveals why he picked Roma

The former England international signed for the Giallorossi earlier this month after seeing his contract expire in west London.

And the 33-year-old has claimed that despite other lucrative offers, he came to the Italian capital to win.

“Why Roma? It’s a great club with real ambition,” he told Roma Channel.

“Last year they came second. I talked with the Coach and he expressed the ambitions he had and showed a real will to win.

“I want to contribute to a team that will win the League. I received offers from other, small teams, but I didn’t want to just lie on a beach.

“I came here to win. I have won a lot in my career, but I don’t want to stop.

“I faced Totti several teams, the first when I was 19, 20. He was extraordinary.

“He’s a god here. I’m sure we’ll have a good chat soon.”

Cole then commented on his relationship with the British Press.

“I don’t worry about what people say about me. My family say I’m a nice guy, so that’s all that matters.

“Of course I have made mistakes, but my relationship with the Press in England is a difficult one, and is one of the reasons why I am here.

“I’ve been painted as a mercenary, a bad person.”