Gareth Farrelly, Ricardo Gardner and Jussi Jaaskelainen have all agreed new and improved contracts that will keep them at the Reebok until 2005.

Now the manager is aiming to secure top scorer, Michael Ricketts, on a long-term arrangement.

The new contracts are a reward for the trio's efforts and performances and a clear indication that they will be key members of the squad in the Premiership next season and in the years to come.

Distraction

Farrelly and Gardner had deals which were due to expire at the end of next season, Jaaskelainen had three years still to run on his but Allardyce has taken the opportunity during the close season to offer them greater security and to avoid the distraction of contract talks, which would have taken place during the Premiership campaign.

The three internationals have all established themselves as valued members of the squad, each having come through difficult periods in their careers.

Farrelly, the 25-year-old Republic of Ireland midfielder, who had a testing time when he first arrived from Everton in a £125,000 deal in November 1999, emerged last season as a talented and influential figure during the promotion season and had his finest hour in the Play-off Final at Cardiff in May.

Gardner, the 22-year-old Jamaican winger, returned after a seven-month recovery from a career-threatening knee injury stronger than ever and promises to be one of the most exciting players in the Premiership ranks.

Jaaskelainen, the 26-year-old Finn, has been sidelined since January with a similar knee injury but is expected to be fit for the start of the new season when he will be ranked among the best goalkeepers in the top flight.

Announcing the new deals, Allardyce said: "These three players are important to the future of Bolton Wanderers and I am delighted they have committed themselves to the club as we prepare for the Premiership campaign."