A controversial but unquestionably brilliant footballer was born 36 years ago.
It could be argued that Cole is the finest full-back England has ever produced.
The current Los Angeles Galaxy star managed to marry defensive diligence with attacking acumen – acquiring 107 international caps for his country.
A trophy haul of three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups and a Champions League crown also shows his worth.
Yet while his talent could not be questioned, an acrimonious exit from boyhood club Arsenal to Chelsea in 2006 tainted his Gunners legacy.
Infamously, a revelation that he was left “trembling with anger” when wages of £55,000 (Dh251,161) per week were offered to him by the Gunners came to symbolise rampant excess and disconnect from everyday supporters.
Other sport stars born on this day:
1961: Freddie Spencer, motorcyclist who became the first man to win 250 and 500cc titles in the same season (55).
1970: Grant Flower, ex-Zimbabwe cricketer and younger brother of former England team director Andy (46).
1982: David Wright, captain of New York Mets in Major League Baseball and seven-time All-Star (34).
1983: Darren Sammy, explosive batsman who captained the West Indies to two World T20 titles (33).