More injury woe for Kirkland

The 22-year-old goalkeeper has failed to recover from a broken wrist in time to compete for a starting place for the remainder of another season cruelly affected by injury problems.

"Chris won't play again this season. He won't be ready in time," admitted Gerard Houllier.

"I don't think he will be fit for the European championships. He is very unlucky because I am sure he would have gone with the England squad."