Roberto Martinez keen for Chris Kirkland to stay
Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez hopes that a change of scenery will do Chris Kirkland the world of good after allowing the former Liverpool goalkeeper to join Leicester City on a one-month emergency loan deal.
The 29-year-old has lost his place at the DW Stadium to Ali Habsi but Martinez does not think his Latics career is over.
The Spaniard told the Wigan Observer:"Chris has been training really well but to improve his form he probably needs to play some games.
"It is a great opportunity for him. I think it is the best possible way for Chris to get back to his best match fitness.
"He is going to a team making a really good challenge and it is probably what he needs now after the consistency he has shown in training.
"Goalkeeper is a very specific position and it can be frustrating at times. We feel from now until January 1 is a perfect window, with a huge amount of games, where Chris can really push himself and enjoy his football.
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"It is a real boost for his Wigan career. He had a couple of niggles earlier on in the season and that affected his form. Ali has come in and done extremely well. Now it is just a way for Chris to keep competing for the number one shirt from a distance.
"In football there are times when you need to play games to test yourself. Chris has still got a long-term contract with the football club. He is a huge asset and a model professional. I don't want Chris to drop his standards because of frustration."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email