Aston Villa: Gary McAllister hopes today is not the end for Brad Friedel

May 22 2011 by Gregg Evans, Sunday Mercury

IF Brad Friedel was to close the curtains on his Villa career he will be sure to sign off in style.

Although Villa have under-achieved this season, personally it’s been a campaign to remember for the veteran American.

Having become the club’s oldest player to appear in claret and blue earlier this year, Friedel will now become part of the select few to appear in the top-flight, aged over 40.

Last week he celebrated his birthday and had further reason to cheer when his wife gave birth to their first son.

It was Friedel’s third child, he has two other daughters, and today the father-of-three ends his 14th year in England against former club Liverpool.

A decision on whether to accept or reject a new 12-month contract at Villa Park has yet to be made by the reliable glovesman.

But assistant manager Gary McAllister hopes it’s not the end of his long-serving career.