Aston Villa's Brad Friedel has red card rescinded at Liverpool

The American was set for a ban after being given his marching orders when Fernando Torres took a tumble in the area to win a penalty. Steven Gerrard duely dispatched the resulting kick for Liverpool's fifth goal.The successful appeal means he is cleared to take part in Aston Villa's next match against Manchester United on April 5.  Related ArticlesNil-nil back in fashionO'Neill: Villa can survive sticky periodAgbonlahor defiant despite crowd hostilityFrank Lampard red card rescinded by FAManchester United can still ruin Rafa Benitezs wonderlandChelsea appeal Lampards West Ham dismissal37-year-old Friedel was adjudged by referee Martin Atkinson to have brought Torres down, when it appeared he was attempting to move out of the way. Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill disagreed with the decision and said: 'I've seen the sending off from a better angle and, from Brad's point of view, I don't think he's gone out and made a deliberate attempt to upend him.'In fact, quite the opposite. When Torres touched the ball on, Brad realised he wasn't going to get it and actually made himself smaller.'Aston Villa have dropped to fifth position after allowing Arsenal to overtake them and go three points clear, and will be grateful to have Friedel reporting for duty. The clash at Old Trafford will provide a stern test for O'Neill's men as they seek to get their season back on track. United's title credentials will be heavily scrutinised by playing a side that Liverpool so comprehensively beat.  

Source: Telegraph