Ashley Cole May Have Used Home For Poker Tournaments

Ashley Cole had gaming tables in his home as recently as 2008.

Poker may be one of the most popular pastimes of England and Chelsea footballer Ashley Cole, after details about his former home emerged.

David Gilbert, who sold the property in Surrey to Cole and wife Cheryl in 2008, was invited back several months later.

He said there had been many changes made to the house, including the introduction of a secret casino at the top of a spiral staircase.

"At the top of the house is Ashley's gambling den with gaming tables. His football shirts adorn the walls and a marquetry floor has the emblems of the clubs he has played for," explained Mr Gilbert.

Cole could also have used his purpose-built casino to host poker tournaments, as well as play blackjack and roulette.

The left-back recently played for England in the World Cup in South Africa, where the team crashed out in the second round to Germany.