Wigan boss Paul Jewell feels Chris Kirkland's England recall is fully vindicated.
Wigan boss Paul Jewell feels Chris Kirkland's England recall is fully vindicated.The Liverpool goalkeeper is to spend this season on loan at Wigan and he has been handed a boost ahead of the new campaign by being named in Steve McClaren's first England squad.
Kirkland spent last term at West Brom but a season plagued by injury saw his World Cup aspirations diminish as the talented 25-year-old missed out on Germany.
McClaren has, though, been quick to reinstate Kirkland and Jewell feels England's new incumbent is correct in his decision to recall a player he believes deserves a change in fortune.
''He is due a change of luck in his career,'' said Jewell.
''If he is fit and playing regularly then he is one of the top three goalkeepers in the country, something Steve McClaren can clearly see.
''I really wish him good luck for the coming season because he is due plenty of it.''
Kirkland admits he is delighted to be back in the England frame, eager to make some kind of appearance on Wednesday against Greece.
''If I'm involved on Wednesday then that will be great,'' said Kirkland.
''It's a major surprise because I thought I would have to be playing in The Premiership again, and playing well.''
