I know I'm not the only one thinking it. Joe Cole has hardly been Joe Cole this season. In fact, when was the last time we saw the vintage Joey -- 2008?

He actually opened the 2008-09 season fairly well, if I remember; I believe he netted three goals before doomsday -- the FA Cup tie against Southend which resulted in a season-ending knee injury. Since returning from injury, Cole has made 25 appearances (16 starts, 9 subs). He has hardly been impressive.

This is in the final year of his current contract. This for a man seeking a deal reportedly worth six figures per week. Not good enough; not good enough at all.

Maybe you, like me, gave Joey a longer leash. You know, having seen how Michael Essien returned from an extended layoff. Impressive early in his return (c. Liverpool CL tie), form waned a tad later in the season, then back to his dynamic best before the ACON injury. Cole was impressive early this term, but now appears simply inadequate -- and I'm afraid we might not see a renaissance.

Perhaps the real question should be: Is he really fit? If not, then the question is: Will he ever be? And thus, do we hand him a new contract? Let me know people.