It's 200 not out for evergreen Friedel
Villa's dressing room have saluted Brad Friedel as the evergreen goalkeeper prepares for his 200th successive Premier League appearance at Everton.
The 38-year-old surpassed David James' previous Premier League record of 167 games on the trot last season, but will reach the historic landmark if he plays against the Toffees tomorrow.
Friedel is expected to get the nod despite the midweek heroics of compatriot Brad Guzan, who saved four penalties in the Carling Cup victory over Sunderland.
Villa left-back Stephen Warnock, who also played with the American at Blackburn where the remarkable run began, has hailed his team-mate's incredible professionalism.
The defender said: "To clock up 200 games in a row would be an incredible achievement, but we all know that Brad is a quality goalkeeper.
"You only have to watch him in training and can see his total commitment to being a good and top class professional. He is always striving to get better – even at the age he is. He always wants to do better."
Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell believes the stopper has proven his class year in, year out in the Premier League and believes having Guzan around has kept him on his toes.
Sidwell said: "Brad Friedel's a top-class keeper. I'm sure now he knows he has to perform with Brad Guzan waiting in the wings."
