KEVIN Poole could be set to carry on playing for Wanderers at 40.

The reserve keeper has impressed Sam Allardyce with his qualities as a number two so much that he could be handed a new contract in the summer.

Poole, who is 40 in July, has to be content with playing second fiddle to Jussi Jaaskelainen and Allardyce says it is a special breed who are able to stay keen and sharp when they scarcely ever get a first team game.

The former Aston Villa, Middlesbrough, Leicester and Birmingham veteran's current one-year deal ends in June and age will be no barrier to him being given a similar deal next season.

Poole impressed with his ability as well as his attitude in the midweek FA Cup tie at Sunderland where he kept a clean sheet with a man of the match performance for 90 minutes before conceding two extra time goals.

Allardyce explained: "He was the best player on the pitch by a long way. When we made mistakes at the back Kevin pulled off the saves so they did not cost us any goals."

Despite his excellent display Poole goes straight back into the reserves to stay sharp and ready in case Jaaskelainen suffers injury or a loss of form.

Allardyce praised: "It is very difficult to find someone who is comfortable with a number two position and able to be mentally ready to take the opportunity when needed.

"That's a huge thing for a keeper and reason I changed Steve Banks for Kevin.

"Steve is the kind of keeper who is not happy as a number two. He was not right for that role because he is the kind who needs to be playing every week.

"Nicky Southall was the same. He wanted to go back to Gillingham where he could play every week and I have respect for people like that who put playing first and the money second.

"People like Steve Banks and Nicky Southall are a breath of fresh air to me because there are a lot of players who put money first and playing second."

Banks is currently on loan at Stoke City after similar loan spells at Bradford City and Rochdale.