But now they have been relegated to the Championship it is unsure whether they will be able to secure Kirkland's services for another season.
"Chris had a good time here and I know the coaching staff, especially Joe Corrigan, like him and like working with him," said chairman chairman Jeremy Peace.
"Given the chance we'd like to have him back. But it's up to Liverpool and Chris, although we gather Chris wouldn't mind coming back.
"The reality we have to accept is that we're a Championship club and he's used to the Premiership. Whether that has an influence, who knows?"