Wigan Athletic Football Club boss Roberto Martinez has backed Chris Kirkland for England.

The 28-year-old goalkeeper has one cap for his country, but injuries have blighted his progress and a long-standing back problem prevents him from training on a full-time basis.

Despite this Kirkland remains one of the most impressive shot-stoppers in the country, and Martinez has urged Fabio Capello to consider him ahead of the World Cup Finals.

“I keep looking at the Premier League goalkeepers and I don't see anyone better," he said. "If Chris can play the next 15 games, then he should be in the England squad.

“His performances show you that he is assured, he has great confidence and he always makes the right decisions. I can guarantee 100 per cent that he will be in the England squad."

At the moment England’s number one position is up for grabs, with David James (Portsmouth), Ben Foster (Manchester United) and Robert Green (West Ham United) all vying for the role.

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