BLACKBURN Rovers keeper Brad Friedel can play on in the Premier League until he is 40, according to manager Mark Hughes.

The big American shot-stopper, 36, has made 167 successive appearances for Rovers and has played every minute of every league and cup game this season.

And he was in typically inspirational form on Sunday, with his penalty save from Steve Howard turning the game for Rovers as they came from a goal down to beat struggling Derby County.

Unlike his opposite number tonight, Craig Gordon, who joined Sunderland from Hearts in the summer in a £9 million deal, making him the most expensive British keeper, Friedel was captured on a free transfer.

But, while Scottish international Gordon has found it difficult to adapt to the Premier League, Friedel has been Mr Consistent between the sticks.

However, his impressive form doesn't come as a surprise to Hughes, who has tipped him to continue at the top for some time to come.

He said: "He has done it over a long period of time. There are a lot of guys who shine brightly for a short period of time and get a lot of press and then you don't hear about them for two or three seasons.

"But Brad consistently has been at the top of his trade for seven years and that is credit to him and how he prepares for games.

"Because he prepares correctly and has done right the way through his career it would be up to him how long he goes on for.

"At some point, his powers will diminish because that is what old age does to you. But if you prepare properly and give yourself a chance to lengthen your career, you can have longevity.

"I would not doubt him when he says he thinks he can play in the Premier League until he is 40, given the way he approaches his work. If anybody can do that, it is Brad, definitely."

And Hughes, who will be hoping Friedel can play his part as Rovers chase their first back-to-back wins in 10 Premier League matches tonight against a Sunderland side eager to end a six-match losing run on the road, admits his keeper is among the very best he has ever worked with.

He added: "He is right up there with anybody else I have worked with.

"I played with Neville Southall and Peter Schmeichel - many, many top keepers.

"Brad is definitely up there with the top of those just because of his application and his professionalism."