Liverpool stance on Luke Chambers World Cup rejection revealed as turning England down for Kilmarnock wows McInnes

Derek McInnes insists the selfless commitment of Luke Chambers epitomises the desire and togetherness within his Kilmarnock’s battlers.

And the Rugby Park boss now wants his troops to combine the “fire and ice” to take another big step to safety. Killie can strike a huge blow in the survival fight with a win and Chambers will be involved after the England Under-20 left-back resisted an opportunity to head to the World Cup in Argentina to remain in Ayrshire and lend his efforts to the cause. McInnes says that massive sign of loyalty reflects brilliantly on the on-loan Liverpool kid and the unity within his squad.

He said: “For all the loan players I have worked with over the years, he is probably up there with the best. Not just in terms of his ability, but a more popular boy you won’t find in the dressing room. Such a good kid, really refreshing with a lot of old-school values about him in the way he works. Luke is very passionate about playing for his country, as you would expect. It was obviously a good opportunity and showcase for him to be involved in a World Cup.

“The fact he felt that obligation to us is great for me, great for the club and it says everything about him. When I read the [England] email, it just looked like bog-standard email until I saw the dates.

“England were good with it and Liverpool said they would support whatever Luke decided, but they were happy for him to stay with us. The decision was his and the decision was clear. I can’t go. I need to play with Killie.

“I said he had the choice and he said he was here. That was him. There was no twisting his arm. He was on it. As soon as I relayed the conversation to my head of recruitment, he said don’t you just love him.

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