Derby County have recently released their retained list for next season as they plan for yet another season in the Championship.

They were beaten in the Play-Off final by Aston Villa, as they missed out on a chance to make a timely return to the Premier League.

One man that won’t be in Frank Lampard’s squad for next season is Ashley Cole, who wasn’t offered a new deal with the Rams.

Cole is the subject of our FLW Six Pointer this week, so we look into his performances and future in more detail.

How has Cole performed for Derby this season?

He’s been on and off.

Cole has struggled for a consistent run in the Derby starting XI, which will have been a frustration to the former Chelsea man.

But when he has been in the team, he has been impressive, although it does look as though he’s well past his best at the moment.

He would have hoped to have made more of an impact for the Rams.

Are Derby making a mistake in not renewing his contract?

It’s probably the best move for both parties.

Cole wasn’t regularly in the Derby starting XI, and given his age, his seemingly imminent exit was always on the cards.

Derby evidently have other alternatives that they can turn to ahead of next season, which will mean Cole is heading for the exit door.

Is retirement looking likely or could he be tempted by a move elsewhere?

He’s surely going to hang up his boots.

At the age of 38, Cole has had a hugely successful career, and he can go out with no regrets.

But if he wasn’t getting in the Derby side last season, then that surely could hint that he’s past his best.

Could he move into coaching?

I think it’s only a matter of time.

Cole will surely be tempted to follow in the footsteps of Frank Lampard, who has proven to be a real success at Derby in his first managerial spell.

Cole has the experience and leadership needed to be a success himself in football as a coach or a manager.

Has has time with Derby been a success?

I think it’s been one to forget.

I had high hopes for when he first signed for Derby, but he’s struggled to make a notable impact in Frank Lampard’s team this season.

He will have hoped to have been a regular in the Derby side, but he’s been kept out of the side by Scott Malone.

It’s been a disappointing time with the club for Cole.

Does this suggest Derby could be in the market for a new left-back?

Absolutely.

Derby need to strengthen their depth ahead of next season, and if Cole is leaving, then it almost guarantees that they will sign a new left-back.

If they don’t sign one, then they’re going to really struggle next season as they target promotion to the Premier League.