When last we saw former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Brad Friedel, he was saying a very emotional farewell to the fans during half-time of Spurs final home match of the season against Hull in mid May. You can see video of that at this Spurs TV link. Friedel was the longest player in the history of both Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa.
That is unless you watched Spurs take on the Major League Soccer All-Stars in July, and judging by the television ratings numbers for that exhibition, you didn’t! Friedel called that game for FOX, but he’s going in a different direction now for his post retirement career.
Friedel, an American from Lakewood, Ohio, is leaving the media business to become coach of the United States National Team Under 19s. USA Soccer made the announcement on Monday.
“We are thrilled to bring on two guys who have such tremendous experience,” said U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann.
“Brad Friedel played at the highest level for almost two decades, and his knowledge will be a huge benefit to our young players.
“Omid Namazi has not only been a professional player at all levels in the United States, he has worked as a coach both here and overseas which adds important perspective.
“They have both been assistant coaches in our youth national teams, so this is another important step in connecting the dots between our teams.”
“I look forward to the opportunity to help develop our young players into professionals and full internationals,” said Brad Friedel.
“The last four years I have focused my coaching at the academy and development levels, and I’m excited to work with the entire group of committed Youth National Team staff members to increase our levels of development here in the United States.”
Paul M. Banks owns, operates and sometimes writes The Sports Bank.net, which is partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network. The website is also featured on News Now.
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