Arsenal asks its fans not to taunt former player Ashley Cole

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Arsenal asked its fans Friday not to taunt former player Ashley Cole during this weekend's Premier League match at Chelsea.

The England left back moved from Arsenal to Chelsea in an acrimonious transfer in August.

Cole first angered Arsenal fans by secretly talking to the Blues more than a year before his transfer, a rules violation which led to him being fined.

Cole again upset supporters in September when, in his autobiography, he said he felt "betrayed" when Arsenal offered him a weekly contract of 55,000 pounds (US$107,000; €81,000)

Critics called him "Cashley" Cole, and some Arsenal fans had planned to wave fake bank notes during Sunday's match at Stamford Bridge.

Arsenal issued a statement warning that any fans carrying fake notes or other objects would be refused entry to the ground.

"Those of you attending the Chelsea game will know there are a number of actions planned against individuals at Chelsea by a small minority of Arsenal fans," the statement said. "Arsenal do not tolerate any foul or abusive behavior and we are working closely with both Chelsea and the relevant authorities to ensure that Sunday's match will be played in a safe and positive environment."

It will be the first time Cole has played against his former club. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said he should be respected for the seven years he spent with the Gunners.

"My relationship with Ashley is OK," Wenger said Friday. "He has gone to Chelsea in special circumstances that have been talked about a lot. But don't forget he did well at this club and you must respect that. We already appreciate what he has done for the club and what the club has done for him, but sometimes you have disagreements with people."