Carlton in US backwater

Carlton Cole has signed for obscure US third division side Sacramento Republic FC until the end of the season.

The former Irons striker was last seen at Scottish champions Celtic – where he left after eight months and five appearances.

He was one of the first out when 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.