Wigan Athletic Football Club News

• Nickname:Latics
• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25,000

Kirkland's finger woe

14 Feb 2007 - 08:24:40

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Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Chris Kirkland faces a spell on the sidelines after being forced to have surgery on a finger injury.

The 25-year-old England international could be out for up to six weeks after tearing a ligament in his finger during training.

The Latics' head physiotherapist, Alan Tomlinson, told the club's official website: "It's hard to tell as ever with injuries and as a rule I don't like to put time-scales in place, because it can vary depending upon how quickly the injury heals.

"That said, it's a pretty straightforward procedure and I'd envisage he'll be playing within six weeks."

Kirkland is remaining upbeat though, saying: "I've been ever-present so far this season which will obviously stop now, but I've had a good run and in myself I feel fitter now than I have for several seasons.

"I'm viewing this as a minor setback and just one of those strange injuries that happen from time to time. I'm not going to get down about it, that's for sure."

The former Coventry City and Liverpool shot-stopper has made 27 appearances for Paul Jewell's side since his summer transfer to the JJB Stadium.