Friedel maintains starting spot for Tottenham’s trip to Reading

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has confirmed Brad Friedel will start Sunday’s Premier League match against Reading.

The Spurs boss revealed the American will retain his role as the No.1 keeper, despite the arrival of France international captain Hugo Lloris from Lyon.

The Portuguese manager has claimed the 41-year-old will keep his place in between the sticks because of his impressive displays against Norwich and West Brom.

Villas-Boas told reporters: “We feel that Brad is looking consistent, and deserves [to start] bearing in mind his performances against Norwich and against West Brom.”

Friedel currently holds the record for the most consecutive Premier League starts –  a record which will be extended by at least one more game.

His record of 307 consecutive starts – a run stretching back to 2004 with Blackburn, Aston Villa and now Spurs – had looked in danger following the arrival of £12.5 million (€15.5m) signing Hugo Lloris on transfer deadline day.

The American goalkeeper has already warned the 25-year-old Frenchman that he faces a battle to take the No.1 jersey at White Hart Lane.