“Today Kolo Toure was released from Liverpool Football Club after three years on Merseyside.”
It is probably the saddest thing you’ll hear all day.
However, some say Kolo actually is ancient Swahili for love. If it’s true or not I don’t know, but one thing is certain, you just can’t help loving the big smiling fella!
When Kolo arrived on Merseyside in the summer of 2013, he was then acknowledged as a clever bit of business. Liverpool were lacking some experience and leadership after Jamie Carragher’s retirement, something Kolo brought to the team in abundance.
The former Arsenal and Manchester City man had tried a bit of everything in his career, but claimed he was still very much hungry for more memorable experiences and hoped he could be part of something big in Liverpool.
At the age of 32, many wondered just how much the Ivorian international could contribute. Not as fast as he used to be, but more mature than ever, he embarked on a journey in the Liverpool country facing competition from the likes of Daniel Agger, Mamadou Sakho, and Marti Skrtel.
With the prominent names in front him, Kolo started at the back of the pecking order. However, the big man managed to make 24 appearances for Liverpool, including 20 appearances in the league, in his first season with the club. Impressive, considering his age and the quality of his team-mates.
Even though Toure didn’t manage to replicate the amount of appearances in the league the following two seasons, he became a vital part of the squad and even captained Liverpool in a few matches. He became important when Liverpool often would field a bunch of youngsters in the cup and when the opportunity to play in the league presented itself, Kolo was ready.
One thing that would characterize his time in Liverpool is his ‘fight-to-the-end’ spirit. When called upon, Kolo would always give 100% and at times a bit more. Occasionally, he would perform like he did back in the day, throwing his body in front of shots from every direction. His performance against Real Madrid at the Bernabéu comes to mind.
Not only do I believe he has done a much better job on the field than many would have expected, but he became a fan favourite off the field as well. His selfies and his always positive view on things could united the Liverpool fan base and that is some achievement!
A fan base who didn’t hesitate to praise or adore him. Not only was he likened by the fans but also within the squad. Many will still remember the scenes from Dubai when the entire squad led by Steven Gerrard did the Kolo and Yaya Toure chant!
YouTube: Steven Gerrard Leads Liverpool Players In EPIC Yaya / Kolo Toure Chant In Dubai
There is no doubt in my mind that Kolo means love.
The fans will miss him and the club will miss him, but you can’t blame him for wanting to do the thing he loves the must.
Hopefully, when is active career is over, he will once again return to Liverpool in a coaching role of some sort so I prefer to finish this of by saying; all the best in the future Kolo and until next time.
