Ashley Cole having a laugh at Arsenal malaise

FORMER England left-back Ashley Cole claims he has no regrets over leaving Arsenal for Chelsea – and has laughed at the Gunners’ struggles ever since.

Cole was accused of chasing money – and was even nicknamed ‘Cashley’ – by some supporters after leaving his boyhood club for Stamford Bridge in 2006.

Having turned down a £55,000-a-week (about R862 000) deal at Arsenal, the 36-year-old penned a deal worth £90,000 when he join Jose Mourinho’s titlewinning side.

Cole won eight major honours in total while at Stamford Bridge,including four FA Cup titles.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have won only two FA Cups in the 11 years since the 36-year-old left the club.

And the former England left-back said he has enjoyed watching Arsenal’s malaise over the last decade.

“If I’m honest, yeah – I still think to this day. I laugh to myself,” he said.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have won only two FA Cups since 2012 – to the amusement of Cole

“I had a lot of history there and I think the way I left was maybe a bit dodgy but the lack of respect they showed me as well.”

Despite accusing his club of disrespect, however, Cole said he is partly culpable for the break down in relations.

“No, I think I have to blame myself as well. Maybe I done things in the wrong way. But when I look back at it now I think there were a lot of parties I could blame.

“But it’s gone now and it’s ten years down the line.” – Daily Mail