Kirkland makes Liverpool return

Former England goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has returned to the club where he won a Champions League medal, becoming the Liverpool Women goalkeeping coach.

"I'm delighted," Kirkland told 'Sky Sports.'

"It is Liverpool at the end of the day. It is my club. I have always supported them and used to go to games at Anfield when I was eight years old. My daughter is at the centre of excellence too, so it all just fits. I'm looking forward to it."

Kirkland's daughter is also at the club, playing as a goalkeeper for the under-12 side.

Kirkland is optimistic about her future with the side, saying: "She tells me that she is miles better than me and she is good."

"I know all parents say that but she is doing well and she's got a chance."

However, he admits that it is difficult to watch his daughter play. "I know how my family felt now," he said.

"I hate it, it's so nerve-wracking. She loves it though and I let her get on with it."

Liverpool Women boss Neil Redfearn approached Kirkland directly, and said that he was "extremely impressed by his knowledge of the women's game," describing him as "a magnificent signing for the club."

Kirkland explained that he hadn't thought of taking this path before Redfearn contacted him.

"I had never envisaged it but Neil rang me and asked me if I fancied it," he said.

"I did. Neil did a great job at Doncaster and they won the second division last year. He has got plenty of experience and so has the squad - I think the average age is 28 - and that's great."

Liverpool will kick off their season with a cup match against newly formed Manchester United Women on Sunday.