MATT Gilks has been officially confirmed as Wanderers’ new goalkeeper coach – and will be registered as a player too.

The 38-year-old former Scotland international helped Fleetwood reach the League One play-offs last season and becomes the 11th new arrival in Ian Evatt’s squad.

It also completes a full circle for the former Rangers, Rochdale and Blackpool stopper, who started out under the wing of renowned Bolton keeper coach, Fred Barber, in his youth.

“I was fortunate enough to train here when I was just starting out as a young lad,” he said.

“I spent a number of years training with Fred, Jussi Jaaskelainen and Steve Banks during the Sam Allardyce era and I’m forever indebted to this football club for the part they played in my upbringing as a professional footballer.”

Gilks has amassed more than 400 career appearances to date and played a part in Wanderers recruiting his former team-mate, Billy Crellin, from Fleetwood on loan earlier this month.

He will add an air of experience to the goalkeeping ranks, which also include homegrown talent Matty Alexander, and has a big part to play this season, says head coach, Ian Evatt.

“I’m delighted to welcome Matt as our new goalkeeper coach,” he said. “He is a fantastic character and, after a stellar playing career, he moves into an exciting new role.

“Matt has a wealth of knowledge to give our goalkeepers and will be a huge asset for this football club.”