Although his appearances have been limited, Ali Al Habsi is a vital part of Wanderers' squad, providing healthy competition for Jussi Jaaskelainen in the goalkeeping department.

The Omani international proved his worth as a tremendous goalkeeper when he came into the team following Jaaskelainen's back injury in March 2008. Prior to this, Wanderers fans had only seen glimpses of his ability, the highlight being a stunning performance against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Cup.

During January 2009, when the rest of his club colleagues were pitting their wits against Arsenal and Manchester United in the Premier League, Al Habsi was away on international duty in his homeland, attempting to be part of the first Oman side to lift the Gulf Cup. And after an epic penalty shoot-out victory over Saudi Arabia in the final, the popular stopper saw his dream come true.

He was voted goalkeeper of the tournament and on returning back to England with his winners' medal, he said: "I don't think it could have gone any better and it's the fourth time that I have won the best goalkeeper of the tournament. But this is why I work so hard - I'm really proud for myself.

"The Gulf Cup is really important for people in the area, and so for the people of Oman it was like winning the World Cup."

Prior to his exploits at the Gulf Cup, Al Habsi penned an extended deal with Bolton, which ties him to the club until the summer of 2013.

ALI IS SPONSORED BY STEPHEN & LOUISE FISH