For much of this season, Spurs number one Brad Friedel has quietly gone about his business and at times, solid performances across the back four have provided him with little to do. When called upon, the American is an uncomplicated keeper who has brought calm between the posts where once there was chaos.
In establishing himself as the club’s first choice, Brad has extended an incredible record that has seen him play 289 consecutive games in the Premier league – the last match he missed was for Blackburn in May 2004.
His opposite number tonight, Pepe Reina is set for his 176th game on the trot and is impressed with Friedel’s benchmark.
“I would love to beat Brad’s record one day, but I know it’s going to be very difficult,” Reina said.
The Spaniard also identified Spurs’ key men for tonight’s clash.
“Tottenham base their play on Bale and Modric, and it’s working well for them. So we will have to stop them. It will be a very sacrificial match for us with the hard work we will need to put in but if we want to move up the table then we simply have to win it.”
The keepers are expected to be the busiest men on the pitch tonight and we naturally hope that Brad sees less work than his counterpart.
