Sacramento Republic director of football Graham Smith has revealed that Carlton Cole has left the club after just four games.

The 33-year-old joined the United Soccer League club in August after being released by Celtic.

The former West Ham United striker played just 101 minutes and failed to score during Sacramento's unsuccessful playoff campaign.

Now, Cole has returned to the UK in order to seek out "opportunities", but the door has been left open by the California club.

"Carlton's now in very good physical condition and his match fitness is better than when he first arrived in Sacramento," Smith told the Sacramento Bee. "He's gone back to the UK to see what his opportunities might be there. Then he'll let us know his plans after Christmas.

"If he is in good physical condition and wants to come back to Sacramento, I see no reason why Paul [Buckle, the head coach] wouldn't want him back next season. He's a real gentleman, and he's been great to have around our young players."

Cole, who spent nine years of his career at West Ham, made just five appearances during an eight-month spell at Celtic, which was marred by a knee injury.