Rudi Garcia: ‘Ashley Cole is not in my Roma plans’

The former England international is believed to be on his way out of the club, after failing to impress since arriving last summer.

Speaking about the defensive situation at the club, Garcia confirmed he will not select Cole, but is confident Maicon will be fit for the visit of Juventus next week.

“Fortunately, Maicon’s injury is not serious,” Garcia told journalists in his pre-match press conference. “He’ll be ready for Roma-Juventus. Cole will not be called. It’s a choice made by the club, we decided together.”

Garcia was then asked whether the gap to Juventus had been reduced, but insists he can’t be sure until the transfer window shuts.

“This season will tell us," he said. "I can say that the club has done good work to improve, they brought in great players. The market is not closed. For a coach, it’s not a pleasant time to start the season, with the transfer window still open.

“We’re waiting to complete the squad, but there are three points to get on Saturday. We’ll talk about the transfer market on September 1."