Toronto FC keeper Stefan Frei tipped to impress Liverpool coaching staff

Toronto FC goalkeeper Stefan Frei is being tipped to impress Liverpool coaching staff during his trials.

The shot-stopper has been invited for trials at Liverpool this week and Colorado Rapids keeper Chris Sharpe, formerly of Southampton and Chesterfield, says he has the abilities to handle English football.

Liverpool are keen for their keepers to be good with their feet - and one of Frei 's strengths is his 'sweeping' ability.

Sharpe told tribalfootball.com: "I think he has the abilities to play in England. I think with the calibre of goalkeepers in the EPL these days and the foreign influence of goalkeepers becoming alot stronger in the EPL I think it would be difficult, but definitely (he's good enough) for a Championship club without any doubts.

"Stefan is very good with his feet and has great distribution. Stef is a very good shot stopper and has good hands when coming for crosses in crowded areas."

While regarded as a Canadian, Frei actually carries a Swiss passport and Sharpe says many around the MLS reckon he deserves to be considered.

"Perhaps with him training in England over the break it may help his chances with the Swiss National team. I think it was hard for him at the end of last season. Toronto had alot of games and I know Stef had a few knocks through out the course of the season, however he is definitely a very good goalkeeper."

For Reds fans unfamiliar with Frei, Sharpe believes he can be compared with Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas.

"Stature-wise I think a Casillas would be fair to say as they are both not overly big goalkeepers but very dominant in their own ways - and leaders of their respective teams."