CELTIC have announced that Kolo Toure has joined the club’s coaching team in the role of Technical Assistant.

The former Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal defender joined the Hoops ‘ playing staff last summer before departing at the end of his one-year deal.

Toure made just 20 appearances for Brandan Rodgers’ side, but became a popular figure at the club and has now joined the Northern Irishman’s management team following his retirement from playing.

He will become a part of the coaching setup at first team level as well as assisting across various youth levels.

In an interview with Celtic TV, Toure said he expects the transition into the new role to be an easy one as he begins life off the pitch.

“I couldn’t be happier to be back at this great club,” he said.

“This is a new chapter in my career, a new beginning. The football is over now. I can officially say I am retired from playing and now I am fully concentrating on coaching.

“For me there is no big change in terms of what I will be doing. I have always been the kind of player who tries to help those around me.

“Now I will try to give advice, help the young players and just guide them and pass on all the experience I have acquired during my career.

“I can learn so much from working with Brendan Rodgers, he is a top manager. I will be working with him and his staff very closely each day.

“He is one of the best young managers in the world right now. What he’s doing for Celtic is there for all to see, he’s doing amazingly right now.”

Manager Rodgers believes that Toure’s experience of playing at the top level of international and European football will prove invaluable for his players.

“This is great news for Celtic that we are able to bring a man of Kolo’s experience into our coaching team,” said the Northern Irishman.

“He has worked at the top of the game for so many years and he has all the qualities which any player of any age should aspire to.

“He is a fantastic role model for our younger players and someone who has a level of experience and knowledge which can only be invaluable to our established players.

“We are delighted that we will benefit from this experience and I know will make a real contribution to the club in this role.”