Chris Kirkland is delighted to be back in action at Wigan Athletic.

The one-cap England international goalkeeper said: "It's hard every time you have to come back from injury, but I'm happy at the moment.

"I need a good run in the team. Last season, I played 27 games which wasn't too bad, and hopefully this time I can play all season.

"It helps there are two very good keepers pushing me for my place in Mike Pollitt and Carlo Nash.

"Everyone needs strong competition for their place, and I've certainly got that here.

"I know if I am not performing, I will be out of the team and replaced by one of the others."