Carlton Cole has signed for Sacramento Republic of the United Soccer League.
The Californian club was only formed in 2012 and joined the USL two years later as the sport in North America attempts to expand to support the main Major League Soccer.
Cole had a brief unhappy time at Celtic last season with his final appearance coming in the 8-1 win over Hamilton Accies in January.
The former Chelsea and West Ham striker signed in October after impressing Ronny Deila during a trial period but failed to provide any striking alternative to Leigh Griffiths and will be best remembered in song for his time at Celtic.
Signing any English Premier League name generates plenty of attention in the United States with Sacramento delighted with their signing scoop..
“Cole needs no introduction,” Head Coach Paul Buckle told the club website. “In terms in what he has does in the game, he has played at the highest level throughout his career and it shows he is a top player and very good professional.
“When he became available, we realized the good he can bring, his invaluable experience and that he can score goals.”
Cole’s most productive days were at West Ham where he enjoyed two spells scoring over 50 league goals.
At the end of last season he was one of the ‘legends’ invited along as the shutters went up at Upton Park with other former Celts Frank McAvennie, Paolo di Canio and Stuart Slater also invited.
Fans of Cole can watch most Sacramento games live on their You Tube channel.
CLICK HERE for Brendan’s 4-4-2 to beat Motherwell.
