Chelsea captain John Terry hopes Blues fans give Joe Cole a good reception when he returns to Stamford Bridge for Sunday's game with Liverpool.
The 29-year-old spent seven years with the Blues following his move from West Ham before leaving on a free transfer last summer.
The England international was a firm fans' favourite during his time at the club and Sunday's game will be first return to his former home as a Reds player.
Terry insists Cole is a "Chelsea boy" and believes that he deserves to be recognised for his efforts with the Londoners.
"Joe gave everything for this club and hopefully the fans will recognise that and give him the reception he deserves," explained Terry.
"He is a Chelsea boy, even when he was at West Ham he said he was a Chelsea boy as a kid.
"I was sorry to see him go, others were too. That's why I'm 100 per cent sure he'll get a great reception."
Terry remains close friends with Cole and despite the fact he has endured a slow start to life at Anfield, he is backing the midfielder to come good.
"He's a great lad and I'm still in contact with him," Terry continued.
"I watched his debut and him getting sent off - he should never have been sent off. Then he picked up a knock but he is confident in his own ability and me too.
"I'm sure he will have a huge part to play for Liverpool."
