Cole: Defeat won't give us Blues

Chelsea's Carling Cup final loss at the hands of Tottenham was the first time the squad of players put together by Grant and former coach Jose Mourinho had experienced such disappointment.

But Cole, left out of the starting line-up to accommodate new £15million striker Nicolas Anelka, believes the setback can only help them become tougher, saying: "We are disappointed but we have got to pick ourselves up for the next game."

He added: "We will go away and digest this game but it is disappointing for everyone at the club to lose in the final. We've not experienced that before as a group and it can only make us stronger now.

"We will wash ourselves of this game and concentrate on the next one. Tottenham are a very good side and give them credit for winning. But we have to move on."

Meanwhile, Grant insists Anelka and Didier Drogba can become a potent partnership despite failing to shine at Wembley.

The predatory talents of Anelka were sacrificed in a wide role that left him isolated for much of the contest, but Grant remains confident the duo can become a lethal force.

"It was the first game they played together and I think it will be a good combination," said Grant. "We wanted to play Anelka on the side because he's a creative player and quick. That's what we wanted from him.

"It was not an easy game for them to do their best. It is not a casino - there is no gamble in football.

"They can play together, no question. You can't pick players like them and say it's a gamble."