Rodgers’ tutoring the key for Kolo
KOLO TOURE reckons Brendan Rodgers was the perfect mentor for him at Celtic as he embarks on his new coaching career.
The former Hoops defender was appointed assistant manager to Ivory Coast’s Olympic team last week after leaving Parkhead in the summer.
The 36-year-old insists he hasn’t hung up his boots yet and could go back to playing too.
But the ex-Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City stopper has thanked Rodgers for helping him learn his trade in Glasgow.
Toure said: “I had the chance to learn from Brendan Rogers during the past season.
“I was still a Celtic player, but during the second half of the season I was basically an apprentice coach at the club.
“This allowed me to take part in the preparation of matches, pre-match and post-match meetings, as well as half-time talks.
“So I had a great experience of coaching with Brendan Rodgers which has helped a great deal. This is a new challenge for me and it is a great honour.
“For some time I have been preparing myself for this role. I was given the opportunity to become a coach only, but I want to keep playing and combine them both.
“I have played under Brendan Rodgers, Arsene Wenger, Roberto Mancini and many more. I spoke to them all before I decided what to do and they were all very encouraging.
“Right now, I’m waiting on the right opportunity to continue playing. If I don’t find the right club, I will become a full-time coach.”