Partridge reveals Kerr helped through the bad times

Richie Partridge has revealed he still has high hopes of playing for the Irish international team - and Brian Kerr helped him keep his spirits up when when he was injured.

Dubliner Partrige recently made a return to first team action with the Reds after a four-year absence, coming on as a substitute as Liverpool beat Middlesbrough 2-0 in the Carling Cup.

It was the winger's first appearance with the senior team at Anfield since November 2000.

And Partridge, recovering from serious knee injury, has revealed Irish boss Brian Kerr helped him on his way back.

“When I was injured he called to tell me to keep my head up. When I was injured, and things were really getting me down, that was a big boost,” says Partridge.

Now on a one-year deal at Liverpool, Partridge reveals he is still focused on making it at Anfield - and of representing Ireland.

“Obviously like any player I would love to play for my country. I was on the bench for a senior match before and it would be a dream come through for me to play,” he says.

* See Martin Claffey's Eye on the Irish column on www.breakingnews.ie for full interview.