Fred Key To Jaaskelainen Form - Allardyce

By Mark Heys
October 27 2006

Sam Allardyce beleives that Jussi Jaaskelainen's recent good form is down to the work that he does with Bolton goalkeeper coach Fred Barber.

Jaaskelainen saved two late penalties during last weekend's win over Blackburn Rovers and Allardyce says that the Finn is one of the most workaholic players at the club due to bond that he shares with Barber in training.

"Jussi is the opposite to most players in that you have to stop him training and tell him to take a rest. He is successful because the programme put together by Fred is very important to him. Not all players are that dedicated. You have to force them and make work.

The duo of Barber and Jaaskelainen have worked together ever since the latter signed for the Wanderers from VPS Vaasa in November 1997 and Allardyce feels that Jaaskelainen's consistency has improved as a result.

"Jussi has had a special relationship with Fred since he arrived here from Finland.
He is now becoming more and consistent because of the work they are putting in. You have to say that Jussi has been brilliant recently."