Kolo Toure “feels loved” playing for “amazing” Liverpool fans

Kolo Toure has explained why he has turned down opportunities to join a number of clubs that could guarantee him first-team football to stay at Liverpool.

Football - Liverpool FC Preseason Tour 2015 - Day 7 - Adelaide

Toure made 21 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool last season, but only 12 in the league, down from 20 appearances the previous year.

However, the 34-year-old signed a 12-month contract extension with the club earlier this year, and says the decision to stay was “really simple”.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Toure said he “feels loved here” and is looking forward to helping the club progress.

“There were other offers but I couldn’t leave one of the best clubs in the world,” he said.

“For me, to be able to be at Liverpool – playing for this manager and being part of this squad and playing for amazing fans – is massive.

“I really enjoy being here. I feel loved and that’s important. I am so lucky to be at a club like this and I want to help this club to get better.”

Football - Liverpool FC Preseason Tour 2015 - Day 7 - Adelaide

Now about to enter his third year on Merseyside, Toure and his decorated career of two Premier League titles and three FA Cups, hopes the younger players at the club absorb his experience.

“I know I have a role to play in helping the younger players,” he added. “I have a lot of experience but I’m not here just for that.

“I want to play football. And I’ll fight and give 100% every single day to show to the manager that I’m able to play. That’s what everyone has to do.

“We have two or three players for every position now. If someone is not fit then we’ve got someone ready to come in and play. You need that competition.”

Toure could be in action this weekend as Liverpool finish their pre-season preparations with friendlies at HJK Helsinki (Saturday, 5.30pm) and Swindon Town (Sunday, 4pm).