Former West Ham star Carlton Cole signs for obscure US third division side Sacramento Republic
Striker, who won seven caps for England, was released after just eight months at Celtic this summer
CARLTON COLE has signed for obscure US third division side Sacramento Republic FC until the end of the season.
The former West Ham striker, who won seven England caps, was last seen at Scottish champions Celtic where he lasted just eight months and made five appearances.
He was one of the first names to leave Parkhead when former Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers began his shake-up of the squad.
Sacramento were only founded in 2012 and play in the United Soccer League - the US equivalent of League 1, and two tiers below the MLS.
related articles
They are managed by former Torquay, Bristol Rovers, Luton and Cheltenham boss Paul Buckle, who said: "Cole needs no introduction.
"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 realised the good he can bring, his invaluable experience and that he can score goals."
Cole, 32, brings 14 years of Premier League experience to an unknown squad.
He is best known for a decade with the Hammers, where he scored 55 goals in 256 games over two spells.
Cole's first match could be against Portland Timbers 2 on August 20th.