Celtic striker Carlton Cole has revealed that he is getting closer to making his debut for the club as he continues to build up his fitness levels.

The 32-year-old has not played a competitive match since being released by West Ham United at the end of last season, but joined Celtic on a two-year deal last month.

The former England international played for an hour in a recent training match against Livingston, which Celtic won 4-1, and he is hopeful that he can make his bow for the first team sooner rather than later.

"I needed that game last week because it has been so long since I've played," he told Celtic View.

"Just being out there among the lads was great. It didn't go the way I dreamed about it but it was a start. When it's a start you've just got to take what you can. I worked hard, tried to influence it as much as I could, and that will come with more match sharpness and games.

"I was supposed to only play 45 minutes but with the person I am, if I feel like I can do a bit more, I'll do it. I asked the manager if I could do an extra 15 and they all know where I'm at but I've got to control that to make sure I don't get injured again. It's a fine line."

Cole could be in line to play some part in Celtic's home match against Kilmarnock on Saturday.