Brad Friedel is looking forward to a new chapter in his long and distinguished career after backing Blackburn to continue their progress.

The American goalkeeper refused to be too downcast despite losing to Chelsea in yesterday's FA Cup semi-final, insisting good days lie ahead.

Friedel, 35, signed a one-year extension to his contract until 2009 in the week before the Old Trafford showpiece.

He said: "I would not have wanted to re-sign if I did not think this club could go on.

"We gave Chelsea more than a game. They just happened to get a break in extra-time.

"We have also had our best run ever in Europe.

"I know what the staff is like behind closed doors. They are very professional and want to make the club bigger and better."

Friedel has not ruled out the possibility of the side qualifying for a UEFA Cup place for a second successive season through their league position.

Blackburn return to Barclays Premiership action tomorrow at Ewood Park in a match featuring fellow FA Cup semi-final losers Watford.

Rovers are off the pace in 13th place but have two games in hand on most of their rivals.

Friedel also feels, if the club's European goal was achieved, there would be more funds available for new signings.

He said: "Our league position at the moment has a lot to do with the injuries we had at the beginning of the season and the amount of games we had to contend with.

"We have 18 points left to play for and we can take them.

"We are not going to let the season die out. We are too professional for that.

"I know, if we finish on a positive note, the club will be generous to the coaching staff in the summer. We will be able to bring in a few more players."

Friedel insists Blackburn can take a lot of positives from the way they played against Chelsea.

He said: "On another day, we could have scored twice in the second half. We looked really fresh.

"But everyone of us should be able to walk out with our heads held high. We gave it all we had.

"Now, though, we have another game around the corner, which means not too many sleepless nights."