Friedel undecided over Villa future

Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel says he will decide on his playing future at the end of the season.

Friedel, 39, will become the oldest player to ever play for Villa if he lines up against Manchester United on Tuesday at Old Trafford, surpassing the record set by Ernie Callaghan in 1947.

Speculation about the American’s future is constant, but Friedel is not concerned about turning 40 and says if he stays fit, he will keep playing.

“I don’t know if it will be a good thing or a bad thing to be the oldest player ever to play for the club,” Friedel said.

“I will continue to just keep myself as fit as possible and hopefully be chosen to play football matches.”

“Age is a number. I don’t think about it. I just go by how I feel. If I feel good and able to play – that makes me happy.”

Friedel is likely to be involved in Sunday’s fourth-round FA Cup tie at Villa Park against former club Blackburn. He made nearly 300 appearances during a nine-year stint at Ewood Park.