Newboy Friedel predicts Villa top four place

Goalkeeper Brad Friedel completed his 2.5 million pound move from Blackburn to Aston Villa on Saturday and vowed to help the Midlands side break into the Premier League top four.

The 37-year-old ended his eight-season association with Blackburn, who signed England keeper Paul Robinson from Tottenham on Friday, and decided to move to Villa Park rather than Manchester City.

The American told www.avfc.co.uk: “Making this move was a very easy decision and a very difficult decision to make all at the same time.

“I'd been at Blackburn eight years and this was going to be my ninth season. The fans and everyone at the club have been terrific with me.

“In saying that I'm really excited to be here at Aston Villa. Being able to work with these players, with Martin O'Neill and with Mr (Randy) Lerner (club owner) is exciting for me.

“I've really got the feeling this club is going places and that's the main reason why I'm here. Hopefully we can improve on last year. Sixth was good but if we can move into fifth or fourth that would be fantastic.”