Wigan stopper Chris Kirkland insists he is not bitter at being shown the exit door by Liverpool ahead of his return to Anfield on Wednesday.

Kirkland spent five years on the Reds' books following a £6million move from Coventry in August 2001, but managed a total of just 45 appearances, primarily due to a string of injuries.

Although his last game for Liverpool was three years ago, Kirkland has not played at Anfield since due to his injury concerns.

Despite being dumped by Benitez, Wednesday's Premier League match will still be a special one for the 26 year old.

"I've nothing to prove in going back to Anfield," he said.

"I enjoyed my time there, but had to move on. That's football, although I don't think the Liverpool fans will remember me too well as I was injured quite a lot.

"But I still played around 50 games for them. What happened is one of those things. I had a lot of injuries, and when I was fit, the gaffer thought it best for me to move on.

"But I'm not bitter about it and I certainly don't regret leaving. I went to West Brom, now I'm with Wigan, and I love it.

"You never know what might have happened but for the injuries, but the facts are they happened and my time was hindered.

"As I say, I'm not sour. I just hope I get a good reception from the Kop, that would be nice.

"But the most important thing is I simply play well for Wigan."