Chris Kirkland has revealed he has been told to seek a move away from Liverpool.
Chris Kirkland has revealed he has been told to seek a move away from Liverpool.The 24-year-old arrived at Liverpool in 2001 billed as a future Anfield star, but a string of injuries hampered his progress and he has spent this season on loan at West Brom.
Rafa Benitez does not fancy Kirkland and the former Coventry man claims he is on the lookout for new employers.
The keeper is aware his past injury troubles could put off potential suitors, but claims that his problems are a thing of the past.
"The one plus I take out of this season is that I had a lot to prove - and I think I've done that," he declared.
"I've not missed any matches with my back at all. I've missed the odd day's training when it has been stiff and I've just taken precautions but I've not missed any games.
"Everyone was putting the question marks over that which I suppose was understandable. I'd had quite a serious back operation and everyone knows I've had trouble over the last few years with my back.
"But I've worked hard to get it right and still will do. The thing I proved is there is no problem with my back. I want people to know that if someone does want to take a chance on me then they won't be signing a crock."
Kirkland's hopes of impressing in the final weeks of the season were dashed after he broke a finger last month, but he is on the lookout for a new home.
"Liverpool have made it quite clear that they don't want me," he said. "When they bought Jose Reina I thought the writing was on the wall.
"I've been told to find somewhere else. I have wanted to put myself in the shop window. Unfortunately I'm not going to be able to do that now because of the broken finger but hopefully someone will still take a chance on me."
Baggies chief Bryan Robson is a fan of Kirkland and he could yet remain at The Hawthorns.
"Bryan Robson said all along that if West Brom can stay in The Premiership then he'd like to sign me and I'm grateful for him for saying that.
"I've just got to try and see what my options are at the end of the season and the summer. If West Brom is one of those options that is great to know but I'll have to make a decision."
