Villa boss Martin O’Neill reckons Brad Friedel’s Premier League appearance record will never be broken – in his lifetime at least, writes Brendan McLoughlin.

Goalkeeper Friedel, 38, broke David James’ record of 167 consecutive outings last season and was in line to reach the 200 mark at Everton today.

O’Neill has paid tribute to the evergreen American and believes his remarkable run proves how good a keeper he is.

“I am delighted to have him,” he said. “He has been an excellent keeper at the club for a long, long time now.

“I can’t see the record ever being broken – not in my lifetime anyway. David James did 167 – that tells you something. It won’t be broken.

“I don’t think you can play 200 consecutive games in this Premier League and not be good. That’s number one.

“Secondly, you need a couple of elements to go your way. He had a bit of luck of course with being sent off at Liverpool (last season) and having the reprieve – that kept the run going.”

Friedel now has compatriot Brad Guzan breathing down his neck for the No. 1 jersey after the understudy saved four penalties to help send Villa into the Carling Cup quarter-finals at Sunderland’s expense.

O’Neill revealed Friedel is one of his fittest players despite being the oldest.

“He is remarkably fit,” he continued. “If we were doing a half mile run, of all the players, Brad would be in the first eight.”