Brad Friedel was signed midway during the 97/98 season as a possible replacement for the troubled David James. He made his debut against Aston Villa on 28th February 1998 and impressed as a stable keeper.
During the start of the 98/99 season, Friedel started as first choice keeper ahead of David James. The Reds promptly started that season brilliantly but began to wane. Friedel's form also took a dip and found himself out of the team again. However, he came back later in the season only to face work permit problems after the season ended.

It is well known that Friedel won't be at the club much longer although he stood in for Sander Westerveld when the latter was serving a suspension. Gerard Houllier appears to have little confidence in the American and has started looking elsewhere for back up.