Source: Team_Talk
Friedel tips Given to excel
Shay Given is being backed by his Aston Villa predecessor, Brad Friedel, to play on into his 40s and become a huge success at Aston Villa.[LNB] Friedel ended a successful three-year spell at Villa Park this summer when moving to Tottenham but believes Given is a quality replacement after he made the £3.5million switch from City.[LNB]He found himself replaced as Roberto Mancini's number one by Joe Hart but the 35-year-old wants to rebuild his career after signing a five-year contract at Villa.[LNB]Friedel said: "Shay has been one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League for probably the past 10 years, if not a little bit longer.[LNB]"When you're looking at signing a first-team goalkeeper, in my opinion, there was no one better than Shay out there.[LNB]"The Aston Villa fans demand and deserve quality performers on the pitch and Shay is definitely a top-quality guy. I think he's an absolutely brilliant signing for Aston Villa Football Club.[LNB]"They needed to go out and get a very experienced number one goalkeeper and there is no-one who fits the bill better than Shay."[LNB]Friedel added: "Shay had a year of not playing first team regular football and it must be said this was through no fault of his own. He was kept out by a very good goalkeeper in Joe Hart.[LNB]"Shay did not play himself out of the position in any way, shape or form.[LNB]"It was just that Joe had a tremendous season at Birmingham, went back to Manchester City and performed well in pre-season, then had a very good season in the Premier League.[LNB]"There is not much Shay could have done about that. I'm sure, it was probably the most frustrating thing that a goalkeeper of Shay's quality has ever had to endure.[LNB]"But it may prove to be good for himself and his body to have had that rest. In fact, it could help greatly."[LNB]Friedel admitted: "I see absolutely no reason that Shay can't play into his 40s. You have to look after yourself, which I know Shay does.[LNB]"I know he's a very prudent trainer. He's looked after his body very well. You also need to have the luck of draw with injuries and Shay has avoided any serious problems.[LNB]"Ultimately, too, you have to have some skill and of course Shay has this in abundance. He's been given a five-year contract by Villa and I can understand why.[LNB]"I'm sure Shay will end up being a focal point for them over the duration of his career at the club."
