Kirkland behind number one Jerzy

The Polish shot-stopper gifted the opening goal of the game to Diego Forlan on Sunday, the latest mistake in an alarming catalogue of errors recently.

Many have now called for England Under-21 international Kirkland to be given the gloves instead of Dudek, but the former Coventry man is sticking with his team-mate.

Kirkland arrived at Anfield on the same day as Dudek, and the two have formed a solid bond during their days training together.

Their friendship and respect for each other has been shown in Kirkland's refusal to call for the number one spot from Gerard Houllier, and instead concentrate on supporting Dudek.

"I feel sorry for Jerzy, so sorry for him," said Dudek's understudy.

"He is a fabulous keeper and a fabulous guy, and he was distraught in the dressing room afterwards.

"It has hurt him, but all the lads stood by him and nobody is blaming him.

"How can anyone have a go when he has been so brilliant for Liverpool.

"I know that we are rivals for the same position, but we are also team-mates and good friends as well. I just have to get square behind him now.

"We all have to give him support because he really deserves it.

"He is a fantastic keeper and such a good person to learn from. That is why I have no worries he will bounce back quickly from this.

"I know he will get over the incident and come back even better than ever.

"These things happen to goalkeepers from time to time. It is one of the hazards of the job, but Jerzy is incredibly talented and also incredibly strong.

"The boss has shown faith in him and Jerzy deserves it. I know it can only be good for him and my time will come, but at the moment I am hurting for Jerzy."

Kirkland will start against Ipswich in Wednesday's Worthington Cup tie at Anfield but it remains to be seen if Houllier will give him a start in the league.

Either way Kirkland has been told by the boss that he will one day be the club's number one, and he seems happy enough to bide his time at Anfield.