FORMER England goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has joined Colne’s staff as a goalkeeping coach.

The coup for the Reds comes as new boss Nathan Rooney shapes his backroom team after taking over from Steve Cunningham at the BetVictor North West Division club.

Ex-Coventry, Liverpool, Wigan and Sheffield Wednesday man Kirkland has done some coaching with Port Vale and Liverpool’s Women, where he was briefly caretaker manager, since retiring in August 2016.

The 39-year-old, who cost Liverpool £6million back in 2001, made 321 club appearances in an 18-year professional career, winning one cap for his country as well as eight for England’s Under-21s.

Kirkland will work alongside Colne’s current goalkeeping coach Steve Petty who has agreed terms for next season.

“I’m delighted we have managed to bring a coach with the reputation and experience of Chris to the club,” said former Crawley and Carlisle coach Rooney.

“Again, I think this emphasises the ambition and vision of the club and he will be a great addition to the club and provide support both on and off the pitch.”

Chairman Ryan Haigh said: “I am thrilled at the appointment we have managed to make.

“Chris’ enthusiasm, passion and desire for the role and interest to be involved at this level of the pyramid impressed me from our first conversation.

“Nathan is building a brilliant team around him and together with our vision for the club and it’s future, I believe it speaks volumes that people with these reputations want to come to Colne F.C.”