Jussi Jääskeläinen accumulated 530 appearances across all competitions for Bolton Wanderers between 1997 and 2012, serving as a cornerstone of the squad as the club transitioned from a second-tier team into a consistent Premier League participant. The Finnish goalkeeper maintained a lengthy professional career that spanned from his debut in 1992 until his eventual retirement in India in 2018.
Early Career in Finland
Born in Mikkeli on 19 April 1975, Jääskeläinen began his career at MP Mikkeli. He made his Veikkausliiga debut on 17 May 1992, keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory against HJK Helsinki. Following three seasons of helping the club avoid relegation, he transferred to VPS Vaasa for a fee of 110,000 mk in October 1995. During his time at VPS Vaasa, he helped the team reach second place in the 1997 league standings and earned a third-place finish for the league's Player of the Year award.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Bolton Wanderers Tenure
In 1997, manager Colin Todd signed Jääskeläinen for £100,000. After a period as a third-choice goalkeeper during the 1997-98 season, he secured the starting position ahead of the 1998-99 campaign. Despite facing injury setbacks and competition from teammates such as Keith Branagan and Steve Banks, he established himself as a durable presence in goal. His tenure at Bolton was defined by the team's evolution under Sam Allardyce, during which he remained a vital figure.
Later Career and International Service
Jääskeläinen left Bolton for West Ham United at the conclusion of the 2011-12 season. He later moved to Wigan Athletic on a free transfer, winning the League One title during his first season with the club. His final professional move took him to the Indian club ATK, where he played until his retirement in 2018. Internationally, he earned 56 caps for the Finland national team, beginning his tenure in 1998 and concluding his international service in 2010.
Fast facts
- Born: 19 April 1975, Mikkeli
- Professional Debut: 17 May 1992
- Bolton Wanderers Appearances: 530
- Finland Caps: 56
- International Career: 1998-2010
- Retirement: 2018
- Citizenship: Finland
Questions readers ask
Which clubs did Jääskeläinen play for in England?
He played for Bolton Wanderers, West Ham United, and Wigan Athletic.
What is Jääskeläinen's current occupation?
He works as a goalkeeping coach for the Ykkösliiga club PK-35.
