Ashley Cole thanks England fans

Ashley Cole expressed his gratitude to England supporters following Wednesday's 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland at Wembley.

The Chelsea defender, who captained the Three Lions to commemorate his 100th senior international cap, was given a warm round of applause by the majority of the 80,126 in attendance.

"I never expected to get 100 caps and have the reception I did," Cole told BBC Sport. "I'd like to thank the fans, I didn't expect that. It's something I'll never forget.

"I think we should have won. It was a great atmosphere. Their fans were very good. They were a tough side but I think we should have won.

"I had no problems with being captain. I don't always like talking to the press but I've lived a little boy's dream today."

Cole and Steven Gerrard, both on 102, currently occupy joint-sixth place on the list of most capped England players.

Peter Shilton tops the list with 125.