Cole relishes second West Ham bow

Former England midfielder Joe Cole is relishing the chance to start his second spell with West Ham with an FA Cup third round clash at home to Manchester United.

The 31-year-old has penned an 18-month deal with the Hammers after being allowed to leave Liverpool, with Cole excited about the prospect of being back in the big time as soon as Saturday.

Having helped the Irons to a cup win at Old Trafford back in 2001, Cole told the club's official website: "We can do it again. It's a different team and a different era, but at the end of the day I've come here to play football.

"I love playing football and what better way to do it than against Manchester United at home."

West Ham are 11/4 to reach round four and 14/1 to win 1-0 at teatime on Saturday, while United are 15/2 to triumph by a 2-0 scoreline..

Meanwhile, Cole is determined to make up for lost time after heading back to Upton Park, adding: "I have had 18 months at Liverpool where I haven't played much football.

"I'm going to need games to get back to my best, but I want to play football and come here and help the team to make an impact."

Cole has featured ten time for Liverpool this season, the last appearance coming on Boxing Day in the 3-1 defeat at Stoke City.

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