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.

On signing for the Latics, Kirkland said, "I am just looking forward to playing, the Premiership is where every player wants to be and I am ready to fight for my place in the team. It's frustrating when you're injured and I just want to make up for lost time and start proving to the Wigan fans that I can still make an impact in the Premiership."