West Ham welcome back Joe Cole

West Ham United have officially re-signed Joe Cole on an 18-month-contract.

Cole, 31, is a former West Ham United Academy graduate and will once again don the number 26 shirt which he wore during his first spell at the club.

News broke on Wednesday that Cole was in talks with West Ham about returning to East London and yesterday it was reported he was undergoing a medical.

Speaking to WHUFC.com Cole said:

“It is a great move for me,” confirmed the 31-year-old. “Coming back here brings back all the memories of the pitches I learnt how to play on. This is where I learnt my trade and I’m happy to have another chance to be here. I’ve always loved West Ham and I hope I can give the club a few memorable seasons.

“The timing was right for me to come back and I’m happy. I’m back in London and I’m delighted to be here. I want to be here and I want to make an impact.

“The place has not changed much to look at, but I think Sam has done a great job with the team. A few years ago, the club was in a bad way and Sam has done brilliantly. All in all, it will always be West Ham and the history will always be here and everywhere I go around the world, people love West Ham. Everywhere I go, people know me for having started here.”

Cole also said:

“It was a big thing in me coming back – the fact that everybody here wants me to do well. The fans have always been great for me, whenever I have been back and also when I’ve been in the area visiting family.

“I feel like I owe the club a little bit as well because if it wasn’t for West Ham I wouldn’t be a footballer. This club’s great youth-team coaches taught me the trade.”

Cole will add some much-needed creativity into the West Ham team and I am sure his signing will give the whole place a lift! Welcome home Joe we have missed you!