First, and most importantly, there is some sad news for the Wanderers World. Our dear Jussi is retiring from his international career. His Finnish team failed to make South Africa 2010, and Jaaskelainen announced his retirement earlier today. He was first capped in 1998, and has earned 55 since. Jussi, pure class as ever, came out with this statement:
"I have considered this decision long and hard, and I believe that it is now the right time to give younger Finnish goalkeepers the chance to play on the international stage."
I fear his club retirement can't be far off. The testimonial match seemed a bit like a death warrant to me, after all you don't do a testimonial match for someone who will be with you for years to come. To all Fins: I'm sorry for your loss. Jussi is a great keeper and a total legend.
Moving right along (sorry if I got a bit emotional there), Camel Meriem will not be joining the Wanderers. It seems as though he will be going on trial with Blackburn, though he is currently nursing an injury in France. Best of luck to Meriem, hopefully he will find the oasis of a football club soon (I couldn't resist).
And lastly Joey O'Brien has signed and extension of his contract. He is now bound to the Reebok until 2011. O'Brien came up through our very own youth system, so I very much would like him to succeed. Unfortunately he's been plagued with injuries and is currently recovering from a bad knee injury.
That's all for general news, but keep an eye out for my posts about Chelsea coming up!