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New Cote d'Ivoire boss Wilmots: We've got to get Toure back

REUTERS/Thierry Gouegnon

Cote d'Ivoire manager Marc Wimots' first order of business is to lure a legend out of retirement.

The Dutch manager, who was appointed boss of the African team earlier this week, is optimistic about what he's seen from Yaya Toure at Manchester City and intends to speak with the 33-year-old about possibly ending his national team retirement

"I've seen the last two games that he played for Manchester City in a defensive midfield position," Wilmots told reporters, according to Sky Sports. "He's always great, he's so good physically. I'll go see him, I'll talk with him."

In its first year at the Africa Cup of Nations without Toure, who retired after the 2015 competition, Cote d'Ivoire's title defence ended quickly when the country failed to make it out of the group stage for the first time since 2002.

Toure's absence, according to Wilmots, was likely a contributing factor behind the disappointing performance.

"I know how important it is to have experienced players," Wilmots added. "It's not yet over for Toure; we've got to get him back. The Yaya Toure case will be one of my first missions."

Cote d'Ivoire currently sits atop its World Cup qualifying group with four points after two matches. The country will take on Gabon in its next qualifier on Aug. 28.

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