[lfc-news] Kirkland nets extended run under Benitez - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 4 Oct 2004
Kirkland nets extended run under Benitez
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

CHRIS KIRKLAND is looking forward to a prolonged run as Liverpool's number one following his recall at Stamford Bridge.

Kirkland (left) made a steady comeback in the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea and manager Rafa Benitez confirmed his intention of keeping the 23-year-old in goal for at least five games.

The England international made his first senior start since March, but has now been given the chance to put his bad luck behind him and establish his position.

"It was a difficult game for Chris to come back into the side, but he played well," said Benitez.

"If we can give him four or five games together, we'll see how it goes. "It's important for him to play a number of games to build his confidence."

Benitez believed his call for a more aggressive approach to yesterday's match was heard, but he is now lamenting yet another international break.

The Spanish coach is desperate for longer to work with his players on the training ground.

Instead, many have joined their national teams for World Cup qualifiers.

"The international break is a big problem for us and all the teams," said Benitez.

"It's a big season for us because we have a new manager and new players. It makes it very difficult to train.

"Only when all the players come back we can start training with them again."

Jamie Carragher is Liverpool's sole representative in the England party, which meets up tomorrow.

Xabi Alonso is with Spain while Sami Hyypia, John Arne Riise, Milan Baros, Steve Finnan and Jerzy Dudek are also away from Merseyside.