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Signed from American major league side Columbus Crew, just ahead of Christmas 1997, Brad Friedel arrived at Anfield after a five year wait. The Reds had been chasing his signature for a while, but difficulties in obtaining a work permit for his services had proved to be a major obstacle. However, his international record with the USA was finally sufficient for him to obtain a work permit and Friedel made his Liverpool debut at Aston Villa in February 1998. The American kept his place for the rest of the season and started the 1998-99 season as number one, but lost his place to David James. When Sander Westerveld arrived at Anfield Friedel had another problem. Although the work permit was renewed for the 1999-2000 season, only three non-EC players were allowed in the squad, with those places usually going to Patrik Berger, Vladimir Smicer and Stephane Henchoz. Friedel only played four matches last season when Westerveld was suspended, and with the arrival of Pegguy Arphexad has another battle on his hands. A work permit situation means that the 'keeper is currently in the United States. Transferred to Blackburn Rovers, November 2000.
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