Brad Friedel is hoping that Blackburn Rovers' mid-season break to Florida will help them capture a European break.

With a free weekend following their exit from the FA Cup at the hands of Coventry, the Rovers squad have been enjoying some warm weather training at the Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex as they prepare for a push for a place in the top four and a spot in next season's Champions' League.

With 12 games to go, Rovers lie in ninth place, eight points behind fourth-placed Everton and five points outside of the automatic UEFA Cup places.

Last term, Rovers lost just three of their last 12 games and they will be hoping for a similar return this season.

And Friedel, who made 80 appearances for the United States, said the trip Stateside was just what the doctor ordered as they prepare for the last big push.

He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "We have 12 games left to get ourselves in at least a top-six position and are very close to that goal right now.

"Hopefully training here will give us the rejuvenation we need to finish the season strong as we are normally an exceptional second half team."