Bruce praises Kirkland

Steve Bruce gave glowing praise to Wigan goalkeeper Chris Kirkland after the England shot stopper pulled off a series of stunning saves to help the Latics to a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge, and boosted Wigan's Premiership survival hopes.

Bruce said: “I’ve only had the pleasure of working with him [Kirkland] for four or five months and I think everybody in the game knows he just needs to keep himself fit.

“He’s proved to me he’s an outstanding goalkeeper.

“If we can keep him fit, keep him on the pitch then I don’t think there’s anybody better.

“He’s only a young boy so it’s important we look after him. Nigel Spink, who has come with me from Birmingham to work with him, has done very, very well with him."