KEVIN Davies has hailed Jussi Jaaskelainen as one of the best goalkepeers in the world.

The Wanderers keeper was superb in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Portsmouth.

Jaaskelianen turned 34 two days ago but showed he had lost none of his prowess with a series of stunning saves.

The Big Finn made at least six top-drawer stops – including four from Glen Johnson in a fascinating personal duel with Pompey’s England international - to keep Gary Megson’s side in the game at Fratton Park.

Davies was full of praise for Jaaskelainen after his superb display on the south coast - and puts his success down to his unbelievable work ethic.

“Jussi’s one of the best keepers in the world,” said the Wanderers captain. “Since I’ve been at the club he’s been amazing and I can’t think of a mistake he’s actually made.

“He’s one of the hardest working keepers I’ve ever worked with.

“He’s always in early and will be in the gym before and after training. He works extremely hard and that’s how he has become one of the best keepers in the world.”

Jaaskelainen, now in his 12th season with Bolton, has been an outstanding servant to the club since joining from Finland’s VPS Vaasa for £100,000 in November 1997.

Clocking up 423 appearances, the Whites shot-stopper, who has been awarded a testimonial, signed a new four-year deal in the summer.

Davies believes the Reebok club’s future is in safe hands while Jaaskelainen is still between the posts – and has tipped him to go into coaching when he finally hangs up his gloves.

He said: “He can play until he’s 40. When I first started, keepers used to carry a bit of weight and now they are extremely fit.

“It’s up to him. I’m sure he will keep on playing but I’m sure he will go into coaching when he’s finished.

“He works really hard with Ali Al Habsi and young Adam Bogdan, and they must find it great. He’s really brought Ali Al Habsi on over the last couple of years.”