FORMER Rovers goalkeeper Brad Friedel has been named head coach of the New England Revolution.

Friedel, who also had spells at Liverpool, Aston Villa Tottenham in a Premier League career spanning almost two decades, had been coaching the United States' Under-19s team prior to accepting the challenge with the Major League Soccer team.

In all, Friedel played 356 times for Rovers between 2000 and 2008 which included a man-of-the-match performance in the Worthington Cup final win over Tottenham in 2002.

On his first step in to management, Friedel said: “My staff and I are delighted and honoured to have been hired by the New England Revolution.

“I can guarantee that we, the staff and players, will give 100 per cent commitment to the club and our fans while looking forward to all the challenges ahead. We can't wait to get started right away building this club for the 2018 season.”

The 46-year-old played in three World Cups for his country, including all five games when the United States reached the quarter-finals in 2002. Friedel also made 450 appearances in the Premier League before announcing his retirement upon leaving Tottenham at the end of the 2014/15 season.

Revolution General Manager Michael Burns added: “While Brad's professional playing pedigree speaks for itself, it is his competitive character and commitment to winning that make me confident his incredible career as a player will translate to success here in New England.

“He demands the best out of himself and his players and has a strong presence both in the locker room and on the sidelines, which is why we believe he is the best choice to lead the Revolution.”