Former Manchester United striker Andrew Cole has been inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame, joining Chelsea defenders Ashley Cole and John Terry as part of the 2024 class.
A five-time Premier League champion, Cole secured his place among the legends after a global fan vote was combined with selections by the Premier League Awards Panel.
The prolific and underrated striker sits fourth on the all-time Premier League goalscoring list with 187 goals in 414 appearances. This feat is even more impressive, considering only one of those goals came from a penalty.
Cole’s Premier League journey began with a bang. In the Premier League’s inaugural season (1993/94), he netted an impressive 34 goals for Newcastle United, claiming the Golden Boot award and helping the Magpies finish third behind Blackburn Rovers and champions Manchester United.
His talent caught the eye of the Red Devils, who secured his transfer in 1995 for a then-record British fee.
At United, Cole went on to achieve even greater success, playing a pivotal role in securing five Premier League titles, including a historic three-peat from 1998/99 to 2000/01.
His contributions were also crucial during United’s iconic Treble-winning season.
“I am incredibly proud of everything I’ve achieved in football,” The 52-year-old 15-cap England international said upon receiving the honour.
“Thanks to my family, my coaches and my teammates. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame makes me very proud.
Reflecting on his career choice, he added, “Football is a game of ups and downs, but I enjoyed every single minute of my career. My dad wanted me to play cricket, but I said, ‘No, Dad, I think I’m good at football.’
“Looking back at my career always fills me with great pride and puts a smile on my face.”
Cole joins other United legends like David Beckham, Eric Cantona, Roy Keane, Wayne Rooney, Peter Schmeichel, Paul Scholes, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Rio Ferdinand on the prestigious HOF list.
