Carlo Ancelotti insists Ashley Cole is the world's greatest left back - despite his Ballon D'Or snub.
Chelsea boss praises defender's fitness
Carlo Ancelotti insists Ashley Cole is the world's greatest left back - and does not need to be named on the Ballon d'Or shortlist to prove it.
No English players were named in the nominations for the prestigious award this week.
And Ancelotti, who compared Cole to legendary Italian defender Paolo Maldini, believes the 29-year-old was snubbed because of his playing position.
Instead he has told Cole winning recognition from his peers and fans is the only thing which matters.
Difficult
Ancelotti said: "I don't need to see the players involved in the Ballon d'Or but I can say that Ashley Cole is the best left-back in the world.
"Every year it is difficult for a defender to be in that list because usually the list involves midfielders or strikers.
"In his career Maldini deserved some years to win this award.
"The only reason he did not win the award was because he was a defender. I'm not surprised Ashley is not in there.
"For this kind of player - Maldini was the same - they have a lot of awards from the players, from the coach, from the fans.
"For this reason they don't need the have this award."
Endurance
Ancelotti also reckons Cole could be winning Olympic medals instead of lifting Premier League titles.
For the Italian boss believes the England star has enough stamina to compete alongside some of the world's greatest athletes.
Ancelotti, who believes Cole can continue playing well into his thirties, said: "He could be a marathon runner.
"So much endurance, just like Sebastian Coe."
