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Which Goalkeepers Should Bolton Wanderers Sign?

Up early with a stinking hangover, Chris runs through a few potential signings

Chris Brunskill/Getty Images

As we all know, at the back end of last season Bolton Wanderers took the decision to release 13 players, whilst negotiations are ongoing with the likes of Adam Bogdan, Darren Pratley and Eidur Gudjohnsen.

The uncertainty over Bogdan, in particular, has left fans concerned that the club does not, at this moment in time, have a contracted senior goalkeeper of note on the books with reserve keeper Andy Lonergan being one of the 13 released players.

With this in mind, it is worth having a look at a few potential targets for manager Neil Lennon, should Bogdan choose to leave the club. He has been linked with Liverpool of late, which would of course represent a great opportunity for the player, but it would leave us right up shit creek, as the Bard once said.

So, without further ado, I present my shortlist of available goalkeepers:

Ben Amos

The Manchester United academy product spent a portion of last season at the Reebok and endeared himself to the supporters with a series of excellent performances. Out of contract himself at Old Trafford, Amos would be a superb signing should Boggers choose to move on.

Chances of signing - 8/10

Jussi Jaaskelainen

The now 40-year old Jaaskelainen has just left West Ham United, and needs no introduction to Bolton Wanderers supporters. The Finnish keeper made nigh on 500 appearances for Wanderers between 1997 and 2012. His return to Bolton would be welcomed by all, and his experience would be crucial in the development of the club's younger players including his own son William who is making his way through the academy ranks.

Chances of signing - 7/10

Ali Al-Habsi

Another ex-Wanderer, and another ex-Wigan goalkeeper, the Omani giant spent five years at Wanderers, making only ten appearances, such was the dominance of the above-mentioned Jaaskelainen. Recently freed by Wigan following 91 appearances for the club, he is another international-quality goalkeeper who is available and who is widely experienced, making over 100 appearances for the Oman national side.

Chances of signing - 6/10

Thomas Sorensen

Former Sunderland, Aston Villa and Stoke City keeper Sorensen is no spring chicken at 38, but he has experience by the bucketload, making over 450 career appearances and an impressive 101 for the Denmark national team. Most recently serving as backup to Asmir Begovic at Stoke, he would again represent an experienced choice able to support the club both on and off the pitch.

Chances of signing 1/10

Scott Carson

A former England goalkeeper, the ex-Liverpool and Wigan Athletic man would represent an experienced head between the sticks. His CV is impressive, taking in spells with Bursaspor in Turkey, West Bromwich Albion, Leeds United, Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton Athletic and Aston Villa. Still just 29, Carson has his best years ahead of him.

Chances of signing - 6/10

Steve Harper

Continuing the theme of old granddad goalkeepers with decades of Premier League experience, the former Hull City and Newcastle United keeper might be 40, but remains a quality keeper. He spent 20 years at Newcastle, making 158 appearances with several loan spells in-between.

Chances of signing 3/10