A remarkable gesture is set to rectify a two-decade oversight, as former England international Chris Kirkland will finally receive his official England cap.
Kirkland’s sole appearance for the Three Lions came in a 4-0 friendly victory over Greece at Old Trafford in August 2006.
The former Liverpool shot-stopper played 45 minutes as a substitute in the uneventful encounter, but never made another matchday squad for the Three Lions.
Meanwhile, despite his brief stint, Kirkland’s contribution to the national team warrants recognition.
In respect of that, the Football Association (FA) has taken swift action to correct the mistake, inviting Kirkland as a guest to England’s UEFA Nations League match against Greece – the same opponent he faced 20 years ago.
A special presentation will take place at Wembley today, October 10, 2024, where Kirkland will receive his commemorative cap.
How The Mistake Was Uncovered
The mistake was first identified by staff at Edge Hill University, where Kirkland was recently honored with a doctorate of philosophy.
The FA promptly addressed the situation, ensuring Kirkland’s national team appearance was formally acknowledged.
The presentation will serve as a belated tribute to Kirkland’s service to the England national team.
This gesture underscores the FA’s commitment to recognizing the achievements of all England internationals, regardless of the duration of their tenure.
Moreover, receiving the cap will provide closure for Kirkland, validating his contribution to English football. The occasion will also serve as an indelible reminder of his time as a Three Lions player.
Who is Chris Kirkland?
Chris Kirkland is an English football coach and former professional goalkeeper.
Throughout his 18-year career that spanned from 1998 to 2016, Kirkland made a total of 321 league and cup appearances.
He also earned one cap for the English national team in 2006.
Chris Kirkland football career
Kirkland began his career at Coventry City, where he quickly earned a reputation as one of the most talented young goalkeepers in the country.
In August 2001, he made a £6 million move to Premier League club Liverpool. Unfortunately, his time at Liverpool was plagued by injuries, leading him to consider retiring from football.
Notably, Kirkland was a Champions League winner with Liverpool in 2005.
Afterward, he found success at Wigan Athletic after a successful loan spell and went on to have loan spells at Leicester City and Doncaster Rovers before signing with Sheffield Wednesday in May 2012. Kirkland later joined Preston North End in August 2015 and had a brief stint at Bury before retiring in August 2016.
What’s Kirkland currently doing after retirement?
Currently, the 43-year-old is serving as the head goalkeeping coach at Colne.
What’s next?
The 43-year-old ex-Liverpool star Chris Kirkland will receive a cap with the number 1,114 that recognises his only outing in a Three Lions kit.
Meanwhile, England will hope to continue their winning start to life under interim manager Lee Carsley when they host Greece today with kickoff set at 19:45 BST.
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