The three goalkeeping spots for Fabio Capello’s World Cup squad are certainly up for grabs – with David James, Robert Green, Paul Robinson, Joe Hart, Chris Kirkland and Ben Foster all hoping to be on that plane to South Africa.
However, Wigan boss Roberto Martinez believes Latics’ stopper Kirkland is a certainty to be in that party, providing he can stay clear of injury.
Kirkland will be between the posts when Athletic host Stoke tonight, and Martinez said: “I keep looking at the other England goalkeepers and I don’t see anyone better.
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Martinez previews the clash with Stoke
“His label with injuries has not helped him at all, but it should be based on football decision.
“If he can play in the next 15 games, I think he will be in the England squad. His performances so far have shown me he should be.”
Kirkland has seen his international career put on hold largely due to long-term knee and back problems but Martinez added: “His body has now got used to it, he follows the advice of the physios and the doctors.
“He knows when an injury is serious or just a niggle. I think he was growing before and had a big body to control, now he understands better.
“I can guarantee that Chris is a reliable character. I am 100 per cent sure he will be in the squad. The only battle is to get rid of that label.”
Despite his injury problems, Kirkland has missed just one game for Wigan this term and he was in fine form in the 1-1 draw at Sunderland at the weekend.
In fact, Kirkland was linked with a move to the Stadium of a Light in the January transfer window, but, whilst admitting he is a big fan of the 28-year-old, Black Cats’ boss Steve Bruce said there was no truth in the rumours.
“Talk of me bidding £5 million for Chris Kirkland was garbage although he is a very good goalkeeper and I’m a big admirer of him,” said Bruce.
