Liverpool defender Kolo Toure has turned down the opportunity to join Turkish side Trabzonspor, determined to fight for his place at Liverpool.
The Reds had agreed a fee of around £1.6 million for the Ivory Coast international, who joined from Manchester City last summer.
After a bright start in 2013/14, Toure’s form slipped as the season progressed, though he did make 20 Premier League appearances.
Toure spoke to Sport Ivoire, with quotes picked up by the Independent, about turning down Trabzonspor’s offer.
“I am still at Liverpool. I had talks with the coach who clearly indicated that I was part of his plans. It is a privilege to be at Liverpool. I am very happy to wear the shirt of this legendary club,” he said.
“I feel good physically. At 33 years of age, I am ready for any challenge. It is because I have been spared from serious injuries during my career. I continue to work hard in training to keep up the momentum, and it is why the coach wants to keep me at Liverpool.”
With the signing of Croatian defender Dejan Lovren this summer, Toure’s first-team opportunities are looking increasingly limited.
Furthermore, Danish international Daniel Agger looks set to leave the club after falling down the pecking order behind Lovren, Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho.
Toure added, “Trabzonspor are interested in me, but I have expressed my pleasure at being a Liverpool player.
“Yes, it is always a possibility to join a lower league for more playing time, but I am a competitor and I decided to stay at Liverpool. However, the situation can change at any time, but for the moment I am at Liverpool and I want to carry on with the club.”
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