Andrew Cole backs controversial Rooney Rule

Andrew Cole has expressed his support for the controversial ‘Rooney Rule’, which would ensure that clubs interview at least one black candidate when searching for a new manager.

The Rooney Rule has been a success in the NFL, where the number of black coaches has shot up since the ruling was made in 2003.

Former England and Manchester United striker Andrew Cole believes that a similar rule would be of benefit on these shores.

"How long have we all been talking about black players needing more ways into coaching and management? Over a decade," Cole said.

"Yet here we are in 2011 still debating it. I started doing my UEFA B three years ago. But I told myself last year that it just wasn’t worth it.

"Because I honestly don’t think there is going to be anything there for me when I finish. I’m not going to lie. That’s why I think there will be a generation lost in terms of management."

The call for a Rooney Rule has split opinion, with QPR manager Neil Warnock recently dismissing the notion that racism has anything to do with the lack of black coaches.