Joe Cole Highlights Set-Pieces as Key to England's Success in World Cup

Joe Cole Highlights Set-Pieces as Key to England's Success in World Cup

Former England international Joe Cole believes that the national team's success at the upcoming 48-team World Cup in North America could depend significantly on their ability to "master the arts" of set-pieces. This insight comes after a Premier League season where proficiency in dead-ball situations proved to be crucial. Cole emphasized that the tournament might hinge on performance during corners and free-kicks, especially with Fifa reportedly planning to impose stricter regulations on physicality in the penalty area. He stated, "Fifa have come out and said that they’re going to be stringent... the referees have lost it in the last two years, and it’s allowed for some nonsense to go on." He warned that if Fifa does not enforce these measures effectively, teams that excel in set-pieces will have a greater chance of success. "If Fifa don’t crack down on it... then the team that masters the arts best will be in with a better chance." Cole also criticized the chaotic nature of Premier League set-pieces, likening them to wrestling matches. He called for referees to regain control, stating, "I’d like to see a ref just going, ‘I’ve seen you pull his shirt, mate, that’s a foul... book him, let’s get on with it.’" Shifting focus to England’s squad, Cole supported manager Thomas Tuchel's controversial selections, including the omission of Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Harry Maguire. He noted, "Let’s not keep talking about the players that are not there, let’s keep talking about the players that are there... we’ve got so many matchwinners." Cole concluded that Tuchel's chosen players fit his tactical approach, stating, "I think we’re one of 12 teams that can win it, and things will have to happen." Joe Cole was speaking to the Press Association as part of his role as ambassador for Enterprise’s #OnEveryCorner program, which offers fans in the UK and Ireland a chance to win a car when a corner kick goal is scored.

Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-06-04