Surprised Kirkland glad to be back

The injury-plagued 22-year-old marked his first Premiership start for over ten months with an exemplary performance in the dour draw at Middlesbrough that will only increase his chances of making the number one jersey his own this season.

Kirkland, speaking to the club's official website, said: "Yes, it came as a surprise to me but I'm not complaining and, although I didn't have much to do during the match, it was great to be back.

"I only found out I was playing at ten past one on Saturday afternoon but I was ready and it was nice to keep a clean sheet."