JUSSI Jaaskelainen has reassured Wanderers fans he has no plans to come out of international retirement on a permanent basis.
The veteran goalkeeper hung up his gloves for Finland last October in a bid to prolong his club career.
But Jaaskelainen answered an SOS call from national coach Stuart Baxter to play in last week’s 2-1 defeat against Hungary.
The 35-year-old agreed to return to the international scene after injury ruled out number one Otto Frederikson for the key Euro 2012 qualifier.
But the Bolton shot-stopper insists it was a one-off.
“I am still retired,” said Jaaskelainen. “I spoke to the manager when I retired and said if he had problems with the goalkeepers I would come and help for one or two games.
“The number one had injured his shoulder and hadn’t played for the past three games.
“It was great to go back and play but it was just a one-off game. When you are not travelling to the internationals, you feel much fresher.And I hope the club will benefit from that.”
Jaaskelainen believes Wanderers remain on course for a top-10 finish.The keeper set a target at the beginning of the season of 15 points from the opening 10 Premier League games to avoid a battle with the drop.
And Saturday’s last-gasp 2-1 victory against Stoke has taken Owen Coyle’s side up to seventh after picking up 11 points from eight matches, with Saturday’s trip to Wigan on Saturday followed by a home clash with struggling Liverpool.
Key to Jaaskelainen’s goal – and a successful campaign – will be Wanderers’ ability to keep hold of Gary Cahill.
The England defender was outstanding against the Potters on Saturday and Tottenham and Inter Milan continue to be linked with a move for the 24-year-old star.
And Jaaskelainen admits the club face a battle to keep hold of him.
“Gary Cahill has gone from strength to strength from last season,” he said. “He is much more comfortable on the ball this season and for me he is ready for England.
“He is a young lad and I am grateful he is still with us. Hopefully he will stay still with us and can help this team and achieve his dream of playing for England in the future.”
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