Veteran Aston Villa stopper Brad Friedel is resigned to leaving the Midlanders but will find out for certain in February when boss Gerard Houllier makes his decision. The Frenchman is already on the look-out for a replacement for the big American with Rangers keeper Allan McGregor looking favourite.
The 39 year old will pass Villa's oldest ever player Ernest Callaghan's record of 39 years and 257 days if he plays against Manchester United on February 1 at Old Trafford.
Houllier met club owner Randy Lerner on Wednesday in which a replacement keeper was discussed as Friedel's contract runs out at the end of the season.
"We are looking at several goalkeepers - and we've told Brad.
"We're looking for a keeper for the future. If Brad is fine in February, then we will keep him. We've told him that, if he feels okay.
"I've spoken to him and said 'obviously, you're 39, so I need to look to the future but I'm perfectly happy with you'.
"And, if he feels fine, why not? We'll ask him in February. If he feels alright, we'll keep him. If he stays, he'll stay as the first-team keeper."
