Kirkland ready for the new season

"It's good to be back and I hope to be pushing for a place in the team again," said the young keeper. "I look forward to the battle with Jerzy, Patrice Luzi and anyone else that might come in. That is what I have been aiming for and now I want to put pressure on them.

"All the lads have been great supporting me since I did the injury. There is a special bond between goalkeepers but all the players and staff have been good and I can't thank them enough.

"Last season is something to build on. I played a few games but I still feel I have to prove myself to the fans and to my team-mates. Hopefully I can do that in the coming years."