I must admit to having a bit of a tear in my eye as Carlton Cole came off the pitch on Saturday. It’s likely that was his very last appearance for us I imagine.
Carlton joined us in 2006 and has been a very loyal servant to the club. You don’t get many players like him to the pound nowadays, especially ones that stay in one place for nine years. Yes, he could be a frustrating player at times, but you always knew he was in it for the right reasons. And let’s not forget that although he he was never the most prolific of strikers he scored some very important goals for us.
I imagine Carlton will move down to the Championship, although Bournemouth, and possible Norwich if they go up, may well take a look at him.
Wherever he ends up, if Carlton comes back to Upton Park, I imagine we’ll all give him a standing ovation. He would deserve it.