The former Anfield striker lauded the Reds’ new signing and believes the Cote d’Ivoire international can fill the void left by the retiring Jamie Carragher at the heart of defence
Former Kop legend Robbie Fowler believes new Liverpool signing Kolo Toure will prove a success at Anfield following his arrival from Manchester City on a free transfer.
Fowler played against the Cote d’Ivoire centre-back during spells with Leeds United and Manchester City, and is adamant Toure will be an excellent addition to the Reds’ backline.
“I’ve played against him numerous times and he is a fantastic player,” Fowler told the club’s official website.
“I’m sure coming to a new club will spur him on that little bit more and he will want to do well. He will want to play. I think he will try hard in training and a little bit of pride will set in.
“You look at his performances over the years for Arsenal and Manchester City – he has been magnificent in the Premier League. Let’s hope that he comes to Liverpool and carries on that magnificent form.”
Fowler believes the acquisition of the 32-year-old defender is vitally important, and has backed his experience and title-winning pedigree to adequately replace retiring Anfield icon Jamie Carragher.
“Toure’s been a fantastic player. His experience will be vital for Liverpool, especially after losing Carra,” Fowler continued.
“Carra was unbelievable for Liverpool and, if anything, he was probably Liverpool’s best defender last year. He will be a big miss.
“I don’t know if Kolo Toure will play all of the games, but Liverpool as a team and a squad certainly needed a lot more numbers. Brendan [Rodgers] is doing that right now.
“Toure has been there and worn the T-shirt in the Premier League so I think his signing is absolutely magnificent.”
Fowler is enthused by Rodgers’ work in the transfer market since taking charge, with Celta Vigo’s versatile forward Iago Aspas expected to join Toure imminently, and Fowler has backed Liverpool to push on again next season under the Northern Irish boss.
“I don’t really know too much but I’m sure the manager has done plenty of homework. If they are anything like the signings we made in January then we could be onto a winner,” he added.
“Two great signings in January totally galvanised the club and probably took us to another level. Hopefully these players that have come in, and hopefully there will be a few more, will raise the bar.
“I’m happy with everything Brendan is doing, I think he has been great for the club. In terms of progression, we got more points last year than the year before and we scored more goals than the year before.
“Obviously we conceded two or three more goals, but I’m totally optimistic – as long as we keep progressing and going the right way.”