Friedel pens new Rovers deal

Brad Friedel has signed a new contract to keep him at Blackburn until 2008.

The veteran goalkeeper, who has had spells at Liverpool and Galatasaray, has been rewarded for his consistent performances over the last five years.

The former American international, who will be up against former Rovers boss Graeme Souness’ team on Sunday when Newcastle visit Ewood Park, has also kept two clean sheets in his first five games of the current campaign.

“I’m very pleased, we started speaking last April and it’s been a little while but we got there in the end,” said Friedel, 34.

“I’m very pleased to stay on and get a three-year deal, especially at my age.

“I think I still have four to five good years at the top level so I was very comfortable and confident to sign.

“I think I can give the club three very good years, it’s my sixth season and I have a very good relationship with the fans and the staff.”