Source: Daily_Mail
Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier to decide whether to extend Brad Friedel's contract in New Year
Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier will decide on veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel's future in February.Houllier is looking to the future and has already confirmed Villa have watched Rangers number one Allan McGregor.He is also keeping an eye on Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller. Still one of the best: Villa goalkeeper Brad FriedelFriedel is 39 and is close to become Villa's oldest ever player - he iscurrently only behind right-back Ernest Callaghan, who played for theclub in the 1940s.His contract expires at the end of the season and his Villa future will be sorted out in a couple of months time.Houllier, who met club owner Randy Lerner on Wednesday, said: 'We are looking at several goalkeepers - and we've told Brad.'We're looking for a keeper for the future. If Brad is fine in February, then we will keep him. We've told him that, if he feels okay.'I've spoken to him and said "obviously, you're 39, so I need to look to the future but I'm perfectly happy with you".'And, if he feels fine, why not? We'll ask him in February. If he feels alright, we'll keep him.'If he stays, he'll stay as the first-team keeper.'Decisions, decisions: Villa boss HoullierFriedel will pass Callaghan's record of 39 years and 257 days if heplays against Manchester United on February 1 at Old Trafford.Houllier also confirmed midfielder Steve Sidwell is close to completinga move to West Ham and that there had also been interest from Wolves.He said: 'Steve is having a medical. He's at the end of his contract(next summer) and it's not a secret that he lives in London.'Otherwise I think Wolves would have been interested in signing him.'Meanwhile, the Villa midfield duo of skipper Stiliyan Petrov and FabianDelph are making rapid progress after lengthy injury lay-offs withankle and knee setbacks respectively.There is an outside chance the pair could even be named among thesubstitutes for the Boxing Day clash with Tottenham at Villa Park.Houllier said: 'It think it's a bit too early but I'll see. I can't say yes or no yet.'The good news is that Delph seems to be taking part in practically allour training sessions which is a good sign and a good omen.'Petrov is back and been in full training last week and this week.' Aston Villa looking for loan deals in January, admits Houllier, as financial reality hits homeLerner still dedicated to the cause! Villa chief dismisses ambition doubts Explore more:People: Gerard Houllier, Stiliyan Petrov Places: London