'Kolo's experience could prove vital'

The Ivorian made his return to action during the Europa League defeat by Besiktas on Thursday night, in what was his first appearance in the starting XI since the New Year's Day draw with Leicester City.

Having achieved glory with the Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations, the No.4 is now ready to be called upon whenever Brendan Rodgers needs him - and former Reds defender Gillespie insists Toure's experience will be invaluable for Liverpool in the coming months.

"You can't speak highly enough of the fella, as every time he is called upon by the manager to come into the team after a long absence he has done exceptionally well," he told Liverpoolfc.com.

"Credit where credit is due. Earlier on in the season when he came into the side along with Lucas [Leiva], they performed fantastically well - and that was the time that Liverpool started to pick up form, so it just shows you the experience and the leadership qualities Kolo has.

"He has that experience to know when to do the right things and he is certainly doing the right things at this moment in time."

Former Scotland international Gillespie argues now is the time when Rodgers will need to have all of his squad fit and ready for the challenge that lies ahead as the Reds aim for glory in the FA Cup as well as trying to reach the top four.

"We have got to the stage now where you are going to get one or two suspensions and injuries, so it's vitally important you can utilise your whole squad," he explained.

"For me, his experience will be vital. He has been at top clubs before like Arsenal and Manchester City and he knows what it's all about at the business end of the season.

"It's not just Kolo, because every player will be important for Liverpool in the run-in.

"Any time a sportsperson, whether it be golf or rugby or any team sport, plays with a smile on their face, it brings the best out of you. You are relaxed and you can perform at your best and he is just one of those nice guys. I don't think anyone would have a bad word to say about him.

"I've seen a lot of interviews with him on LFCTV and he is always accommodating and he always has something to say with a smile on his face."

After their Europa League exit in Istanbul, Rodgers' charges will now look to maintain their excellent league form against Manchester City in the noon Anfield showdown on Sunday.

The Reds go into the match with a proud record of having only lost once to City on home turf in the past 23 league games, and Gillespie remains confident they can bounce back to form against Manuel Pellegrini's reigning champions.

He added: "It was a massive disappointment going out of the Europa League because I think everyone felt we had a chance to go all the way in the competition, but we have got ourselves back into a fantastic position in the Premier League.

"It's a massive game for us on Sunday, one of these games you can't really predict because it could easily go either way as we have had some fantastic games against them.

"Fingers crossed we get the three points but if we don't I think it's vital we get a point. It will be interesting to see who is fit and available but hopefully we'll have a few faces back."