Liverpool Ladies have confirmed that former England custodian Chris Kirkland has agreed a deal in principle to become the Reds’ new goalkeeping coach.
Kirkland’s playing career included 45 appearances for Liverpool and over 100 for Wigan Athletic, before retiring from professional football in 2016.
On joining Liverpool Ladies, Kirkland told the club’s website: “I am really excited to have been given my first coaching opportunity in football and I’m really looking forward to the new season. I have watched a lot of women’s football over the past couple of seasons and have been really impressed with the quality football on show.
“Coming back to work for Liverpool FC is a superb feeling and one that I could not turn down. My daughter is also in the Centre of Excellence at Liverpool Ladies which makes the new role even more exciting and I am thrilled to be joining ahead of the new season.”
On the appointment of Kirkland, Liverpool Ladies manager Neil Redfearn said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been able to appoint Chris as the new goalkeeping coach. He was a top class player in his playing career and represented his country, which highlights what a top goalkeeper he was.
“Having spoken to Chris I was extremely impressed by his knowledge of the women’s game so this is a magnificent signing for the club. The likes of Anke (Preuss) and Becky (Flaherty) can only learn from having someone as talented and experienced as Chris as their new Goalkeeping Coach.”
