Former Liverpool and Manchester City defender Kolo Toure has officially joined Celtic FC.
The 35-year old reunites with his former boss, Brendan Rodgers, in the Scottish League after being released by the Reds at the close of the 2015/16 Premier League season.
Kolo- who is the older brother to Manchester City sensation Yaya Toure- made a total of 26 appearances for Liverpool last season, and is considered as good defensive cover by Rodgers.
The center-back has signed a twelve-month contract, albeit with no stipulation of a possible extension at Celtic Park.
Although Kolo was in attendance during Celtic’s 1-1 pre-season friendly against Leicester City- in which the Premier League champions won 6-5 on post-match penalties- the Ivorian will have to wait until 3 August to make his debut against visiting Kazakhstani side FC Astana.
Early life
Born Kolo Abib Toure on 19 March 2022 in Bouake, Ivory Coast, he spent his youth career with local side ASEC Mimosas.
He played for the Abidjan based side for three years before being signed by Arsene Wenger in 2002.
Kolo spent some of his most formative years with the Gunners, playing an intricate role at the back during Arsenal’s 49-game unbeaten run by ‘The Invincibles’.
He joined the then newly resurgent Manchester City in 2009- where he won the FA Cup and Premier Leagues title - before being signed by the Merseyside outfit four years later.
Regular starter or Utility player?
In his mid thirties, it is very unlikely that Kolo will be playing 38 matches a season.
Be that as it may, he will be integral for the Hoops in their Premiership title defense and when shuffling the team in between the Champions League matches [should they qualify].
Written by Brian Humphrey
Follow Brian on Twitter @brihum
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