Chris Kirkland signed for Latics in July 2006 initially on a six month loan deal, which became permanent in January 2007.

The Leicester born shot stopper started his career with Coventry City, and he made his debut in the League Cup against Tranmere in September 1999. He broke into the first team the following season as the Blues failed to win their battle against relegation from the Premiership, but Kirkland emerged as one of the country's most exciting goalkeeping prospects.

Former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier took Kirkland to Anfield in August 2001 for £6million. The former England U21 'keeper was given a chance to show what he was capable of in the 2002/03 season when Polish team mate Jerzy Dudek suffered from an ankle injury. But Kirkland then found himself sidelined due to a broken wrist and was out of action for the rest of that season.

The 26-year old has had his chances limited at Anfield in recent seasons due to the form of Dudek, and more recently, Jose Reina, and he spent the whole of the 2005/06 season on loan at West Bromwich Albion where he made 12 appearances.

Kirkland's performances throughout the 2009/10 season were a huge factor in Wigan Athletic's success, showing the kind of commitment and professionalism we have all become accustomed to as at the club.

Those values, together with his contributions on the pitch, were awarded with the club's 2010 Media Player of the Year Award.

In September 2009 Chris reached the 100-league-game landmark away at Arsenal, an indication of the influential effect he has had at the club since his arrival in 2006 from Liverpool.

Chris' attitude and commitment to the club both on and off have earned him huge respect from his fellow professionals.