Joe Cole: I have improved in France

Lille's on-loan midfielder Joe Cole believes that playing in Ligue 1 has improved him as a player.

The 30-year-old Englishman admitted to being baffled by continental teams when playing for English teams in Europe.

Cole believes that the role full-backs play in France is key to how continental sides operate and said that he has seen key differences to English defenders.

"On a tactical level I have improved. I have opened my eyes," he told L'Equipe. "I like the freedom given to the players. At Lille, we play a very attacking game.

"I was often confused when I played with English clubs against continental teams, because we could never win the ball. Now I can understand why. Ball possession is a key part in the players' education here.

"The role of the full-backs is vital in France, particularly at Lille. Mathieu Debuchy and Franck Beria help bring in extra numbers in attack. In England, the back four guys are just there to defend."

Cole joined Lille on a season-long loan from Liverpool in the summer.