Ashley Cole has revealed that he is relishing life in Serie A with Roma following his move to the club last year.
The 34-year-old left Chelsea at the end of the 2013-14 season and opted to join the Italian club, ending his career in the Premier League.
Cole has admitted that he has no desire to return to England because he is greatly enjoying the lifestyle in Italy due to his new-found freedom.
He told reporters: "I wake up every morning new, free as a bird. I know there's not going to be a story in the paper about going to a nightclub or doing this or that. I had a few offers in the Premier League, but I didn't want to stay. I thought it was time to leave and enjoy a different culture.
"How much of the stories about me were true? I'd probably say half. The culture in England is exaggerated, but it's more relaxed in Italy. You go out to dinner, enjoy a glass of wine. In Italy smoking is more accepted, but in England you get crucified for it.
"I wouldn't say I have regrets. There's things I shouldn't have done, but it depends how you look at it. Maybe things happen for a reason."
Cole made 16 appearances for Roma in his first season at the club.
Simon Sinclair
