Cole is running out of time to make the England World Cup squad
Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is absolutely certain that midfielder Joe Cole will be at the club next season.
Cole has failed to hold down a regular starting berth since returning from a serious knee injury and his contract is due to expire this summer.
The 28-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United after talks over a new deal stalled.
But when Ancelotti was asked to rate the chances of Cole being a Chelsea player next season, he replied "100%".
Reports have suggested Cole and his representatives have angered Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich with their hard-line stance over wages during contract negotiations.
Ancelotti said he was sure Cole wanted to stay and hinted that he may use the England international more in the season's run-in.
"Contracts are not my problem but technically I think he has to stay here 100%," added the Italian.
"He's keeping a very good mental attitude. Even when he's substitute he doesn't lose his confidence, he doesn't lose his mental attitude, he works very hard.
"He's an important player for us. He helps his team-mates and he could play other important games (this season)".
Cole, who signed for £6.6m in 2003, has started only five league games this season, scoring once, after returning from a 10-month lay-off in September.
England coach Fabio Capello said last month that Cole would need to improve "a lot" to force his way into the England squad for this summer's World Cup in South Africa.
Chelsea take on Cole's former club West Ham at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
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