Brad Friedel on Blackburn Rovers return and hopes for season

Friedel racked up more than 350 appearances during an eight-year spell in East Lancashire and is regarded as one of the best shot stoppers in the club’s history.

The American also had spells with Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur before calling time on his playing career at the end of the 2014/15 campaign.

Friedel returned to Ewood Park to watch the action against West Brom on the opening day as Tomasson’s men ran out 2-1 winners thanks to goals from Dilan Markanday and Harry Leonard.

The 52-year-old admits he was “a little worried” after several experienced players departed over the summer but was impressed by Rovers’ young talent against the Baggies.

"I would love to see Blackburn Rovers back in the Premier League," he told Ladbrokes.

"I was a little worried for them with the business they did at the start of the summer - some big names left the club.

“But I was at the first game of the season, at home against West Brom, and the young players were brilliant on the day.

"West Brom boast an experienced squad with some big, strong players - a lot of Blackburn's players were about half the size of their opponents.

“But they were so good on the ball and they really caused West Brom some issues on the counter-attack.

“The scoreline didn't reflect how comfortable Blackburn were on the day. They won 2-1 but could, and probably should, have won by more, to be fair to them.”

Friedel in action at Ewood Park (Image: PA)

Rovers have taken four points from their opening three games in the Championship following Saturday’s 2-1 defeat against Hull City, having played more than 70 minutes with 10 men.

Friedel hopes Tomasson’s men can build on their seventh-place finish last season, which saw them miss out on a play-off spot on goal difference despite victory at Millwall on the final day.

But the former Rovers man knows the Championship is a demanding league and hopes the club can bring in some fresh faces before the transfer window slams shut.

"I think the play-offs are a realistic goal for this team. I think they need a few more assured goals in that team,” he continued.

“Harry Leonard is a young kid who has just played in his first couple of professional games, so you're going to need more than him in this division - especially when you get to that point in the season where games are coming thick and fast, and maybe you're not quite playing well.

"That's when you need a natural goalscorer to help take the pressure off those youngsters.

“Hopefully they can add to that squad depth in the next couple of weeks, in particular further up the pitch.

“I think they're fine in the goalkeeping department. The back line looks strong, maybe one more midfielder gives them a little more flexibility.

“But they look good. The top six is what they should be aiming for but the Championship is a tough old league, as they know.”

Friedel was grateful for the reception he received from the Ewood Park faithful on the opening day and says his Rovers days were a special part of his career.

The American is keen to return to East Lancashire a couple more occasions over the coming season.

"It was my first time going back to Ewood Park as a supporter since 2008. I went out on the field and had a fantastic reception,” he said.

“It's a time of my life that I miss a lot. I was kicking myself that I didn't get back there earlier because there are some lovely people associated with that club.

“I'll definitely get back there a couple more times before the end of the season, for sure."