Kolo Toure fit for World Cup after overcoming malaria

Liverpool defender Kolo Toure is fit in time for the World Cup having overcome a serious bout of malaria. The centre back has been taking ongoing medication for the condition and is now fit for the Ivory Coast's opening game of the tournament.

The 33-year-old will now be fit for Cote D'Ivoire's opening game against Japan and is expected to play from the start of the match.

Toure told reporters: "The malaria was just for two days. Obviously we have the medical department that knows malaria very well and they gave me tablets. I was in bed for two days.

"When they heard the news everyone was talking. I had a phone call from my club, from people around the world. I'm absolutely fine because my body is used to that kind of sickness, it's not the first time and it won't be the last. "I feel great now, I'm training with the team."