Cole not to face assault charges

Andy Cole is currently on loan to Burnley from Sunderland

Former England striker Andy Cole will face no further action over allegations he assaulted his wife.

Cole, who is on loan to Burnley from Sunderland, was arrested on 25 February at his home in Alderley Edge, Cheshire, on suspicion of assault.

He was due to answer bail on Tuesday but a Cheshire Police spokesman said he had been told he did not need to and no further action would be taken.

The 36-year-old married his long-term girlfriend Shirley Dewar in July 2002.

At his peak, Cole played for Newcastle United, Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers.

As a striker he scored nearly 200 goals in successful spells with Newcastle and Manchester United between 1995 and 2001.

He has also played for Manchester City, Portsmouth and Birmingham City.