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Kolo Toure admitted he’s been blown by the reception he’s received from Liverpool fans Down Under – and revealed his fear of animals goes way beyond koalas.

The veteran Ivorian defender has been serenaded in both Brisbane and Adelaide with the Kolo/Yaya song, which the Reds players famously sung on a post-season trip to Dubai in May.

“It’s amazing. For me, it’s something really special,” he said.

“It shows that all the work I put in every day pays off.

“Every time I hear that song I feel really proud. It makes me want to give more.”

During the Reds’ stay in Brisbane, Toure was supposed to cuddle a koala but ended up running off in terror.

Asked about the incident, he said: “I’m not really a big fan of animals.

“It wasn’t anything against koalas. I’ve had a dog at home for seven years and I’ve never even touched it.

“I can look at animals but I can’t bring myself to touch them!”

The 34-year-old’s stay at Anfield is about to extend into a third season after he penned a new one-year deal.

Toure knows he’s unlikely to be a regular starter but is content with his role.

“I have the privilege of staying with this massive club and it’s very important I help the young players,” he said.

“Of course I’m ready as well to step up and give 100% whenever my manager needs me.”