Hughes hails Toure

MANCHESTER City manager Mark Hughes believes Kolo Toure will have a key role to play both on and off the pitch.

The 28–year–old defender has signed a four–year contract after ending a seven–year spell at Arsenal.

The fee was undisclosed but City is believed to have paid about £15million.

Hughes turned to Toure – who will be unveiled to the media today – after his efforts to bring in John Terry were rebuffed first by Chelsea, then by their captain.

Toure’s arrival is City’s sixth signing of the summer. His former Arsenal team–mate Emmanuel Adebayor has already checked in along with Carlos Tevez, Roque Santa Cruz, Gareth Barry and back–up goalkeeper Stuart Taylor. Hughes is believed to be on the lookout for still more players.