Walker Becomes A Wanderer

Last updated : 14 July 2005 By Matt Bottom

Bolton have signed Ian Walker on a free transfer as cover for number one Jussi Jaaskelainen.

Former England international Walker was released by Leicester at the end of last season, but his experience has made him an ideal candidate for Bolton ahead of their European campaign.

"It has been a frustrating time of late but having said that, I am delighted that we have acquired a goalkeeper of Ian Walker's ability," said manager Sam Allardyce on the club's website.

"The goalkeeping area did concern me at the end of the season, but we now have three quality keepers that will match any other team in The Premiership.

"Competition for places is going to be healthy."

The 33-year-old will compete with Allardyce's second goalkeeper signing of the summer, Ali Al-Habsi, to be understudy to Jaaskelainen.