Friedel plumps for Spurs

Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel has agreed to join Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur on a two-year contract.

The experienced American had been considering his future over the past few weeks with a host of clubs from both the Premier League and abroad chasing his signature.

Once the 40-year-old had opted not to move back to the continent, where he previously played for Turkish giants Galatasaray, that left him with four options in England.

His current club Villa were keen for him to extend his three-year stint, having played over 100 Premier League games for the club following his switch from Blackburn.

One of his former clubs Liverpool also made him an offer, whilst West Bromwich Albion also offered him the chance to stay in the Midlands.

But, after mulling over his options, Friedel has now opted to accept Harry Redknapp's offer of a move to White Hart Lane.

The signing of Friedel is likely to place question marks over the future of Heurelho Gomes, but Redknapp insists he wants the Brazilian to stay at the club.

Redknapp told the club's official website: "Brad is a top goalkeeper of real quality who has great experience.

"It is good to have three such experienced top goalkeepers at the club in Gomes, Carlo (Cudicini) and now Brad, and it means we have competition for places particularly with the number of games we will hopefully face next year both domestically and in Europe as well."

Friedel's agent Tony McGill emphasised what a tough decision it was for the keeper to leave Villa.

"Yes, I can confirm Brad has chosen Spurs, but it was a very difficult decision to leave Villa," McGill told skysports.com.

"Brad has really enjoyed his time there, the fans and staff have been exceptional, especially Paul Faulkner [Villa chief executive], and I know Brad will wish Villa nothing but success.

"But Brad felt the time was right to move on, and he has not been short of offers. The last 48 hours have been hectic.

"Brad is now looking forward to moving to Tottenham and pushing for a starting place and helping them back into the top four next season."

Source: Sky Sports

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