Ashley Cole: 'Departing Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger always had my back'

Former Arsenal defender Ashley Cole has taken to social media to thank Arsene Wenger for the contribution that he has made to his career.

On Friday, Wenger announced that he would step down from his role as Gunners manager at the end of the season to conclude a 22-year period with the North Londoners.

Many former players and rivals of Wenger has praised the influence of the Frenchman, and Cole has also opted to reveal his admiration for his ex-boss.

To the man who believed in me and trusted me to play in a great team,thank you for having my back. I will never forget the conversations we had and the belief you had in me thank you for some great memories and good luck in whatever is next for You #wenger ✌🏾 pic.twitter.com/bZAlLMeVm5

— Ashley Cole (@TheRealAC3) April 20, 2018

Cole came through the academy squad at Arsenal before going on to enjoy a seven-year professional stint in Wenger's first-team squad.

The left-back made a total of 228 appearances for Arsenal before opting to leave for Chelsea in 2006.