Connect with us

Transfer News

Houllier Wont Rule Out Friedel Contract Renewal

Gerard Houllier has revealed an intent to hold talks with veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel early next year to discuss whether both parties are interested in agreeing a new contract. The American will be 40 next year and the manager has confirmed that he is on the lookout for a future replacement for Friedel with a host of names being linked. It was believed that Rangers keeper Allan McGregor was top of the list but according to reports, although the Villa management were impressed by the Scotsman over various scouting assignments, the club feel that at 6 foot tall, he is too short. Dortmund keeper Roman Weidenfeller, 30, has apparently replaced McGregor as the priority target though the likes of young Championship stoppers’ Jason Steele and Scott Loach have also been linked. Houllier seemingly left the door open to Big Brad to sign a new contract after it was suggested that his time would be up at Villa Park come the end of the season.

“We are looking at several goalkeepers – and we’ve told Brad

“We’re looking for a keeper for the future.

“If Brad is fine in February, then we will keep him. We’ve told him that, if he feels OK.

“I’ve spoken to him and said ‘obviously, you’re 39, so I need to look to the future but I’m perfectly happy with you’.

“And, if he feels fine, why not? We’ll ask him in February. If he feels alright, we’ll keep him.

“If he stays, he’ll stay as the first-team keeper.”

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Transfer News