STARS IN EUROPE - IVORY COAST - CLUB - Toure still part of COACH Klopp's plans

Liverpool FC Kolo Toure 

Kolo Toure arrived at Liverpool on a free transfer from Manchester City in 2013

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp says Ivory Coast defender Kolo Toure is still part of his plans, but needs to talk to him about his future.

The 35-year-old will be out of contract at the end of this season but is yet to discuss a new deal.

"Kolo is a very, very important player for us, even when he doesn't play," said the former Borussia Dortmund boss.

"He's one of the most impressive people I have met, but now is not the right time to speak about Kolo's future."

The former Arsenal and Manchester City centre-back has played 19 of his 21 matches this season since Klopp arrived at Anfield in October to replace Brendan Rodgers.

"When I came here, Kolo had a few problems injury-wise, but now it looks completely different, and that's good," the German continued.

"How I have heard things is that a big part of Kolo's future is at Liverpool.

So I'd say everything is ok."

The Liverpool manager wants Ivory Coast defender Kolo Toure to extend his contract beyond the end of the season but is yet to discuss the future with the player.