Chelsea are launching an internal disciplinary procedure against the left-back. "We've got a social media policy at the club and there's going to be a disciplinary process – action – against the tweet," said the manager, Roberto Di Matteo, who added: "I'm not against social media but it has to be used with responsibility."
Chelsea refused to confirm the nature of any punishment but it could be a two-week fine, which would cost Cole in the region of £200,000. Di Matteo revealed he had discussed the matter with the 31-year-old, adding: "You would understand that's a private conservation."
The FA refused to comment on whether they would take action against Cole but their own guidelines are clear. A breach includes: "Comments which are improper, which bring the game into disrepute, which are threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting."
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