Why Kolo Toure could be the ideal replacement for Jamie Carragher

Many were left bemused by rumours that linked Kolo Toure with a summer move to Anfield. With Jamie Carragher moving on, Liverpool have been linked to the world and his wife to fill the void at centre-back, but Toure’s name comes as a bit of a shock.

The Ivorian has been largely unused for Manchester City this season, and only made 14 appearances for the team last season after a drugs suspension. Many thought this would be the last we would see of Toure, who, at 32, was expected to fizzle out. But the older Toure will not be playing for Al Sadd or for Newcastle Jets, alongside Emile ‘Heskey-cam’ Heskey, but instead at Anfield. Certainly a golden opportunity for Kolo to re-start his career, but will Liverpool reap the rewards?

Liverpool had a strong, if not rock-solid defence last campaign, and will certainly miss the experience and know-how that Carragher offered. However many observers will note that Liverpool have not had their classic water-tight defence for years, and have struggled in this department ever since the departure of Sami Hyypia. Martin Skertel has been very inconsistent; looking unbeatable on his day, but often lets the side down, whilst Sotirios Kyrgiakos was a huge disappointment for the club. Liverpool are also likely to sign another Greek defender, Kyriakos Papadopoulos from Schalke, and it must be said the arrival of the two is a reassuring sight for a reds fan.

What Carragher lacked in his final years at Liverpool was pace, which is something Toure possesses in abundance. The Ivory Coast international also has the experience of over 300 Premier League appearances. He knows how to defend, and after being unfairly treated at Manchester City, will have the desire to prove doubters wrong. Liverpool have often benefited from signing experienced players to stabilise a younger squad. Markus Babbel proved a good addition at right-back for the Reds, who went on to win the treble after signing the experienced German from Bayern Munich. Gary McAllister was also an important part of the Liverpool midfield,  that helped to develop a young Steven Gerrard.  

Toure has the experience and ability to help marshal the reds defence and provide firm foundations for a developing team. With an ever improving Daniel Sturridge in attack alongside the enigmatic Luis Suarez, the reds have what it takes to push for a top-four finish in 2013-14.

Will Mata