Walker Signs New Contract

By Mark Heys
May 10 2006

Former England international Ian Walker has pledged his long term future to Bolton Wanderers and will stay at the Reebok Stadium for the next two years.

The 34-year old has only appeared for the Trotters in the cup competitions since moving from Leicester City last summer but his commitment in training has sufficiently impressed the Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce.

"We now have three top-class 'keepers at the Club and I don't think there is another premiership club out there that can compete with us on this level," said Allardyce to the official website.

"It has been a tough year for Ian, who has found it difficult to oust Jussi Jaaskelainen from the starting line-up. I have been impressed with his attitude and commitment and it is very pleasing that he wanted to stay here rather trying to ply his trade elsewhere."

Young custodian Chris Howarth has also signed new terms to stay at the Reebok Stadium next season following a spell out on loan with League Two side Stockport County.