Bolton goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi is set to miss three big games in January as he competes in the Gulf Cup.

 

The tournament, held every two years, is not officially recognised by Fifa, but is held in high regard around the Persian Gulf by the eight competing nations.

 

Oman are also hosting the event in 2009 - which kicks off on 4th January.

 

Al Habsi - his country's biggest name - and the only member of their squad playing in Europe is desperate to play for his country in the competition.

 

However, because it is not sanctioned by Fifa - Bolton do not have to release him and could prevent him from playing.

 

Al Habsi - out of contract at the end of the season and attracting interest from a host of clubs - would miss the FA Cup third round clash with Sunderland, and also the Premier League clashes with Arsenal and Manchester United.

 

26-year-old Al Habsi will also be keen to feature in the Gulf Cup in order to show any potential suitors his form.

 

West Ham, Tottenham, Newcastle, Everton, Sunderland and Blackburn are all thought to be interested, whilst clubs from Germany, France and Turkey are also ready to check on him in January.

 

If Ian Walker does still exist, there is a spell of seat warming needed in the New Year.

If Ian Walker does still exist, there is a spell of seat warming needed in the New Year.

 

Maybe keep him out of the lapdancing clubs for a while.

Cue Jussi 3-match injury or suspension at Anfield over Christmas .....

Cue Jussi 3-match injury or suspension at Anfield over Christmas .....

 

But it does say we don't have to let him go to the tournament. I think the club will announce a new contract for him in the next few weeks.

Walker wont make the bench, Adam Bogdan is 3rd Choice

Walker wont make the bench, Adam Bogdan is 3rd Choice

 

If that is the case, then Walker wants paying up and showing the door.

 

He is all that is bad about the modern day footballer. How can somebody who was playing for England only a few years back now be content being 4th choice keeper at an average Premiership club.

If that is the case, then Walker wants paying up and showing the door.

 

He is all that is bad about the modern day footballer. How can somebody who was playing for England only a few years back now be content being 4th choice keeper at an average Premiership club.

 

i'd put it that its all thats wrong with modern day football and clubs. if someone paid me x thou a week to sit on my arse in the twilight of my career i would do it and so would 99.9% of the population.

Is walker not helping Barber train up the youngsters and he's here mainly to provide experience and guidance for the likes of Bogdan etc

Is walker not helping Barber train up the youngsters and he's here mainly to provide experience and guidance for the likes of Bogdan etc

 

I hope not you remember his own goal when he kept for lecister against us???