Bristol Rovers F.C are delighted to announce that goalkeeper Anssi Jaakkola has agreed a new deal.
The 33-year-old has extended his contract at the Club until 2022 with the option of a further year.
The Finnish international arrived at the Memorial Stadium in the summer of 2019 and featured over 20 times in his first season with the Gas.
Anssi made his Rovers debut in the season opener of the 2019/20 campaign at Bloomfield Road and crucial stops against the likes of Oxford United and a last-minute penalty save against Plymouth Argyle helped the shot-stopper quickly become a fan-favourite.
The form of Jaakkola remained impressive as the season continued, with a string of fine saves at significant moments in games, including a superb stop at Home Park in the Emirates FA Cup that will live long in the memory of Rovers supporters.
A shoulder injury away at MK Dons on New Year's Day led to an abrupt halt to the goalkeeper's season, who has since worked hard during his rehab to get back fit for a return to first-team duties.
Speaking about the deal, Manager Ben Garner said, "We are all delighted that Anssi has agreed a contract extension. Prior to his injury he was having an outstanding season and we are looking forward to Anssi building on the great form he showed up until that point.
"Anssi is a great professional and I also see him playing an important role in terms of leadership within our dressing room. Importantly he has a great relationship with Adrian Tucker who continues to develop all of the goalkeepers we have at the club."
Goalkeeper Coach, Adrian Tucker added, "It’s great for all concerned that Anssi has agreed an extension to stay at the club.
“He’s an experienced goalkeeper with a hunger to improve and is well respected within the squad.
“He was in fantastic form up until his shoulder injury in January and he continued to work hard to be fit for any resumption. He’ll no doubt be a key member of the squad next season.”