Celtic release striker Carlton Cole

Carlton Cole has left Celtic after just eight months at the club.

The former Chelsea, West Ham and England striker moved to the club last October on an 18-month deal following his release from Upton Park.

The 32-year-old failed to hold down a regular starting spot with 40-goal Leigh Griffiths a permanent fixture in Ronny Deila's side.

Cole, who was capped seven times by England, scored just once - against Stranraer in the Scottish Cup - in five matches for Celtic.

He becomes the second striker in a week to leave the club after new boss Brendan Rodgers dispensed with the services of Colin Kazim-Richards.

In a brief statement on their website, Celtic said; "Celtic Football Club today confirmed that Carlton Cole is leaving the club.

"Everyone at Celtic would sincerely like to wish Carlton the very best of success for the future."