Celtic assistant manager Chris Davies believes the arrival of "inspirational" Kolo Toure will be a valuable asset on and off the field.

Davies worked with the 35-year-old at Liverpool and says the ability and personality of the player who signed on Sunday will shine through.

"He's a top defender with real authority and experience," he said.

"We are not only getting a really good player but someone who can inspire players around them to help the team."

Toure, who also played for Arsenal and Manchester City, is not in Celtic's travelling party for the Champions League trip to Kazakhstan, ahead of the first leg of a third-round qualifier against Astana.

"He has been working with a personal trainer so it is an important week physically for him and we will see how it goes," added Davies.

Brendan Rodgers' right hand man would not be drawn on attempts to sign Scott Sinclair from Aston Villa.

The clubs have been in negotiations about the winger's transfer. However, no agreement has yet been reached on a fee.

"It would obviously be disrespectful for us talk about a player who belongs to another club," he said.

"The club are working behind the scenes to bring players in who will make a difference.

"It has got to be the right deal and right players. We are focusing on the players who are playing."

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