Albion loan underlines Kirkland ambition
Aug 6 2005
Daily Post
CHRIS KIRKLAND yesterday declared his decision to leave European champions Liverpool for a season-long loan at West Bromwich Albion as proof of his ambition.
The £7million former Coventry goalkeeper had seen his progress as Anfield held back by injuries and the presence of Poland international Jerzy Dudek and Scott Carson.
With Jose Reina having joined the competition for places, Kirkland felt he had no option but to try his luck elsewhere, even though Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez was in no rush to show him the exit.
Kirkland is now preparing to make his first appearance at the Hawthorns tomorrow, when the Baggies face Atletico Madrid in a pre-season friendly.
"I have no regrets about leaving Liverpool on loan," he said.. "They made it quite clear, and I knew myself, that I would need to look elsewhere. The gaffer said I wouldn't get much of a look in and it all depends what you're appetite for the game is.
"I could have sat there and picked up my money but I'm not like that - I love training and playing. Bryan Robson and West Brom gave me the chance and hopefully I can repay them for that."
Kirkland, 24, is hoping for a run of first-team games, having made just 45 appearances in four years at Liverpool.
Now recovered from a serious back injury, the goalkeeper is not guaranteed selection for the Baggies with last season's first choice Russell Hoult, and another Pole - Tomasz Kuszczak - competing for the jersey.
