History beckons for Brad Friedel when he breaks the Premier League consecutive appearance record – but the Villa goalkeeper would far rather reach the Champions League or win a trophy.

The American giant racked up his 166th straight appearance in the top flight against Manchester United last weekend, equalling the record set by Portsmouth’s David James.

He will go one clear of the ex-Villa goalkeeper when he turns out against Fulham at Villa Park.

But the former Blackburn man is more interested in maintaining fourth-placed Villa’s charge for the Champions League and the prospect of winning silverware.

Friedel said: “Is it nice that I have been able to get a run of games? Yes absolutely. But I hope to have many more games ahead of me. I have never appeared in a game hoping to attain an appearance record.

“I appear because I am under contract to play football and I love football. I want to go out and try and help my team get the three points or advance in cup competitions.

“It really hadn’t entered my mind until recently when the statisticians have said I have a chance to break the record.

“I always accept individual awards humbly and it would be pleasing to get one. But we are in a team sport.

“I would be more pleased to get into the Champions League or win a cup competition than pick up an individual honour.

“I think, well I would hope, that every footballer feels the same way.”

Friedel started the consecutive appearance record while at Blackburn and has continued it at Villa by playing in every league game, although he did miss the UEFA Cup trip to Prague this month.