Tevez Would Regret United Exit Forever - Andy Cole

Striker Andy Cole has only just hung up his boots, but has already found time to look back over his career and finds himself filled with regret.

37-year-old Cole agreed to have his Nottingham Forest contract terminated on Hallowe'en, but it's a decision he made long ago that fills him with horror.

Cole left Manchester United in 2001 after a seven-year stay, scoring 93 goals in 195 appearances. He then had a decent spell with Blackburn, before becoming an injury-plagued journeyman.

Now, he's warned unsettled United striker Carlos Tevez to cling onto his United future for dear life, or risk becoming bitter and angry like him.

Talking to MEN Sport, he said of the Argentine, who's battling for a first team place at a time where his future is far from secure, "I can understand he might be frustrated. I went through the same.

"I am not sure what he is really thinking. He might just say 'I won't sign the contract when the permanent deal is offered'. I don't think he should do that, though."

Heaping praise on the bullish forward, Cole continued: "I am in awe of Carlos Tevez; he is a world class striker. If I was him I would stick around. Stay and fight for your place and you will get plenty of matches - that's my advice.

"There's no place like it. Where do you go if you leave United? The only way is down. I was headstrong in my younger days. I made some impulsive decisions and it's a major regret. [Tevez] should bide his time."

Liam Black, Goal.com