Arsenal drubbing showed Chelsea’s character, says former Gunner Cole

ASHLEY COLE insists Chelsea’s 4-1 drubbing of Arsenal proved once again they have the character to bounce back from footballing adversity.

The Blues inflicted Arsenal’s heaviest home defeat for 32 years just days after crashing out of the Champions League in dramatic and con of circumstances.

Chelsea clinched an automatic place in next season’s competition thanks to goals from Alex, Nicolas Anelka, Florent Malouda and a Kolo Toure own goal.

But the club are expected to feel the wrath of UEFA following the controversial scenes at the end of their 1-1 draw with Barcelona last week.

Chelsea are almost certain to be charged with failing to control their players while Didier Drogba and Michael Ballack will be lucky to escape punishment after confronting referee Tom Henning Ovrebo.

Chelsea’s players were criticised by all quarters for their reaction to Ovrebo’s decision to reject four penalty appeals, but Cole is adamant Sunday’s win over Arsenal demonstrated their desire to repair some of the damage.

“As players we know there are a lot of strong emotions in football and sometimes when you haven’t kicked a ball you can’t talk about those emotions and you don’t understand,” declared Cole. “Against Arsenal we showed how good we are. We didn’t get in too many battles or too many fights this time. The lads have done well.

“Everyone’s disappointed when you lose in the semi-final of the Champions League. It’s life and there is nothing we can do about it. The players here have got great character.’’

The former Gunner, who left for Chelsea in 2006, is still hated by the fans who once idolised him and the fury vented on the England left-back shows no sign of dissipating.

But there was no hiding Cole’s delight with the result at the Emirates and added that it was easy for him to be motivated so soon after the Barca setback.

“It was easy for me but I have different reasons for that,” said Cole. “Coming back to my old club, I hate losing against Arsenal so it means I’m more motivated.

“It is always there (the abuse), I don’t blame them. I expect it now and I am used to it. I just want to play my game and win for Chelsea.’’

Now the focus has turned, almost exclusively, to winning the FA Cup.

The final on May 30 at Wembley is expected to be interim coach Guus Hiddink’s final match in charge.