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Erik Sviatchenko labels Kolo Toure an inspiration

Celtic's Erik Sviatchenko (Reuters)
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The defender joined Celtic on a free transfer this summer.

Celtic's Kolo Toure arrives before the matchCeltic’s Kolo Toure

Celtic defender Erik Sviatchenko has hailed Kolo Toure to the club’s official website, saying he is an inspiration.

The veteran defender joined the Scottish champions on a free transfer this summer following his release by Liverpool at the end of last season.

He has been signed to improve a Hoops defence that was heavily criticised during Ronny Deila’s time in charge of the club.

Celtic's Kolo Toure warms up before the matchCeltic’s Kolo Toure warms up before a match

It is the second time he has worked with manager Brendan Rodgers, who will be hoping that his experience of playing in the Premier League and Champions League can prove useful to his team.

One man he appears to have impressed is Sviatchenko, who has labeled his new teammate as inspiring.

“Kolo is an inspiration, especially as he is 35-years-old and yet is still doing everything,” he told the club’s official website.

“He’s still up in the gym doing his rehab and I see him a lot up there, which is good, as he’s also a guy you can look towards and what he has achieved is massive. It’s nice to be a partner with him.”

Celtic's Erik SviatchenkoCeltic’s Erik Sviatchenko

Brendan Rodgers will now be hoping that Sviatchenko and Toure can form a formidable partnership in the centre of his defence.

That area of the team has long been an issue for the Hoops, with the club struggling to adequately replace Virgil van Dijk following his move to Southampton.

Toure is only a short term option given his age, but his manager will be keen to see him provide the base that his side needs for success this season.

Celtic manager Brendan RodgersCeltic manager Brendan Rodgers