Liverpool FC Forum

[JBG]

Bhoys in bid for Kirkland
by Mark Buckingham -  created on 25 Jun 2005


Celtic are trying to scupper West Bromwich Albion's bid to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland.

The England hopeful is poised to spend a season away from Anfield on loan and has West Brom and Celtic chasing his services.

The Baggies have been in pole position to sign the 24-year-old but there has been a late declaration of interest from north of the border.

Bhoys boss Gordon Strachan handed Kirkland his professional debut while at Coventry City and is keen to work with the shot-stopper again.

Kirkland still holds Strachan in high regard but is ready to snub the overtures from Parkhead in favour of a move to The Hawthorns.

The keeper's agent Colin Gordon admitted that Kirkland feels his international aspirations would be better served by staying in The Premiership.

"Celtic are pushing really, really hard and Chris still has a very high regard for Gordon Strachan," Gordon told the Express & Star.

"But Chris feels Albion and The Premiership is the place to be. He is a little concerned Scotland means 'out of sight, out of mind'.

"The opportunity for Albion is exciting for him and suits all parties.

"Albion get a top quality keeper for a season, Liverpool can see Chris prove his fitness and Chris gets the chance to show everyone what he can do."

Gordon confirmed that Kirkland, who gets married this weekend, is aiming to be a Baggies player for the start of pre-season training.

He added: "There will not be a honeymoon. Albion report back next week and Chris is aiming to be there.

"I've spoken to the relevant parties in the last 24 hours and everything is in place for the deal to go through."