[lfc-news] Kirkland: I must prove worth to Rafa - Post

Liverpool Echo, 5 Oct 2004
I must prove worth to Rafa
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

CHRIS KIRKLAND says his latest run as Liverpool number one may be his most important since arriving at Anfield.

The youngster admits he has everything to prove to Rafa Benitez over the next few months and today vowed: "I want to make sure the gaffer doesn't think he needs a new keeper."

Kirkland was restored to the side to face Chelsea on Sunday and acquitted himself well, despite the defeat.

After so many false starts to his Reds career, he's determined to make the latest opportunity count.

"I've got to perform now, it's as simple as that," said Kirkland.

"When a new gaffer comes in you've got to prove yourself again. I want to make sure he doesn't see a new goalkeeper as a priority when the transfer window opens in January or next summer.

"I've been out so much I've got fed up reading about myself having the potential to do this or that. All I've wanted is to play and show what I can do.

"When I was travelling with the squad back from European games, the boss told me I didn't have to play in reserve games if I felt tired, but I was determined to be on the football pitch as much as possible so I could work my way back into contention.

"There were obviously mixed feelings for me on Sunday. I was pleased to be back but unhappy with the result.

"Neither side really created many clear-cut chances until they scored. It was an uphill struggle for us after that."

While speculation was rife before kick-off that Kirkland would return, the 23-year-old says he was not certain of his starting place until Sunday.

"I'd read the stories in the papers but I didn't know for certain until an hour-and-a-half before the game," said Kirkland.

"I felt a nervous confidence. It was a big game to come back but I felt good out there.

"I read the bosses comments yesterday that he'll be giving me a decent run in the side now.

"From my point of view, I obviously want to be in the side for good, not just five games. That's up to me."

Kirkland is wanted for international duty as much as Liverpool, but the youngster's only priority is establishing himself as Anfield number one.

"I'm a bit sick of hearing about what I should be," he added. "It's time for me to show what I can do now."

* Reports in the Spanish media have again linked Liverpool with a January swoop for Athletico Madrid defender Pablo Ibanez.