Friedel in demand

Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel is being targeted by a host of Premier League sides as his future in the West Midlands appears uncertain.

It is being reported by those over bigfreebet that Liverpool, with whom the American started his career in England, are joining West Bromwich Albion and Tottenham Hotspur in the race to secure his services.

Despite reaching the age of 40, the former USA international has been in inspired form for the struggling Villans all season and is keen to extend his playing career by at least another season.

And it appears that Friedel’s future does not lie at Villa Park, as he revealed that he stalled on contract talks following manager Gerard Houllier’s health problems.

He is thought to be unhappy at the uncertainty around the club who have failed to make an impact on the Premier League since the departure of Martin O’Neill.

Before Sunday’s final day victory over Liverpool, the keeper said: “The contract talks at this moment have been put on hold because of Mr Houllier’s health and also the ongoing court case with Martin O’Neill.

“Myself and my advisors wanted to get to safety first and foremost before we started diving into things of that nature.

“I still feel very good, I still think I’ve got a year or two left in the legs and we’ll see what happens.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of my three years here, so we’ll just have to see what the future brings.”

Those over at big free bet note how Friedel spent three years on Merseyside but failed to hold down a regular first team place, making just 25 league appearances.

However, he established himself as Blackburn’s number one in a move to Ewood Park in 2000 and earned a reputation as one of the finest shot-stopper’s in the Premier League.

After 283 appearances for Rovers, the American’s move to Villa has seen him make a further 113 and earlier this season, reached a landmark of starting 250 consecutive league games.

With Jose Reina recently committing his future to Liverpool, it would be unlikely that Friedel would become first choice should he move to Merseyside.

However, a move to Spurs or West Brom could see him take the number one jersey away from Heurelho Gomes or Scott Carson respectively, which may prove a more attractive proposition for the veteran.