England's Wild 2006 World Cup Secret: Cole Reveals Viagra Doping Scandal
Cole: England's 2006 World Cup Squad Took Viagra

In a revelation that is sending shockwaves through the football world, former England defender Ashley Cole has lifted the lid on one of the squad's most bizarre secrets from the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

The explosive claim, detailed in his new autobiography, alleges that several high-profile players, including legends Wayne Rooney and Jermain Defoe, resorted to taking Viagra in a desperate bid to gain an edge on the pitch.

The Bizarre Pre-Match Ritual

Cole's book paints a picture of a camp where unconventional methods were explored. The theory, reportedly, was that the erectile dysfunction drug would improve blood flow and therefore enhance athletic performance. This wasn't a sanctioned medical strategy but rather a player-led experiment that has left many scratching their heads.

Cole himself admits to trying the little blue pill, stating it was part of the squad's culture to seek any possible advantage, no matter how unusual.

A Camp Under Sven-Goran Eriksson

The story adds a new, surreal layer to the narrative of England's campaign under manager Sven-Goran Eriksson. While the 'Golden Generation' of English football was packed with talent, their tournament ended in familiar heartache with a quarter-final penalty shootout loss to Portugal.

This revelation will inevitably lead to questions about the environment within the camp and what other methods were being used behind the scenes.

Football's Reaction to the Doping Claim

The use of any substance, especially one not intended for sports performance, raises serious questions. While Viagra is not on the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned list, its use speaks to a frantic and perhaps misguided pursuit of success.

Fans and pundits are now left to wonder if this strange chapter had any real impact—positive or negative—on the team's fortunes in one of football's biggest tournaments.