Jussi Jaaskelainen signs for West Ham

JUSSI Jaaskelainen has signed for West Ham on a one-year deal, it was confirmed today.

Jussi Jaaskelainen has confirmed his move to West Ham Jussi Jaaskelainen has confirmed his move to West Ham

The Bolton goalkeeper has agreed a move to the Premier League newcomers with the option of signing for a second year if the Hammers should so wish.

The former Finland international told West Ham's official website: "I'm delighted to be joining West Ham United. After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great new challenge and I'm really looking forward to it.

"Everything has happened really quickly. When the opportunity was offered to come to West Ham I didn't think twice and I just told my agent to sort it out as quickly as possible.

"I appreciate Bolton giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my contract was up and for the efforts the chairman made in trying to get me to stay.

I'm delighted to be joining West Ham United

Jussi Jaaskelainen

"I would like to thank the fans for all their support over the years and I wish the players and, in particular, (manager) Owen Coyle all the best in gaining promotion at the first attempt."

Jaaskelainen, who joined Bolton in 1997 from Finnish club Vaasan Palloseura, played for eight years under current Hammers boss Sam Allardyce at Wanderers.

The emergence of young Hungarian keeper Adam Bogdan limited his opportunities last season though, as Bolton were relegated to the Championship.

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