Ashley Cole a “shadow of his former self” after marriage troubles

Friends of Ashley Cole say the footballer is a “shadow of his former self” after nearly losing wife Cheryl Cole.

Cheryl left the couple’s marital home after allegations broke about his infidelity and even though the Girls Aloud star has now return, inside sources report that relations are still incredibly tense between the pair - and Ashley is suffering.

A source told the Mirror: “He’s almost a shadow of his former self, wrecked by guilt of his affair and desperate for forgiveness.” Cole’s willingness to change his lifestyle has been a massive talking point in the Chelsea dressing room. After training he showers and jumps straight into his 4×4 to drive back home to Cheryl. [He just wants] to hide behind the gates of his mansion.”

“His teammates are always inviting him around to their houses to chill out but Ash isn’t having any of it. His mates keep ribbing him about being under the thumb but deep down they know the score and why he’s acting like he does.”

“They can’t believe he went with a random girl instead of someone he could trust not to say anything.”

“This is his worst nightmare come true.”

The source added that Cheryl appreciates Ashley’s behaviour and the fact he’s backed out of the Chelsea team’s annual Easter bank holiday party - but isn’t ready to forgive him just yet: “She knows Ashley is sorry and appreciates his efforts to change but she’s making him stew.”