Cole, 28, played a pivotal role in yesterday's 2-1 victory after coming on as a second half substitute. The Three Lions had laboured in the first half, but Cole's introduction as a foil to Wayne Rooney sparked the turnaround.
Despite not playing for England in 20 months, the utility attacker did not look out of place as he grabbed his 53rd cap. Manager Capello will name his final 23-man squad on Wednesday and Cole now looks set to be on the plane for South Africa.
Speaking to reporters, England skipper Ferdinand was impressed by Cole's contribution off the bench.
"I would say Joe Cole made the biggest impact but all the substitutes made impacts in different ways," Ferdinand noted.
"All of them were very lively and they gave us a bit more drive and forcefulness.
"That is what you need going into a tournament. You need players who can make an impact off the bench."
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