Brad Friedel: Zion Suzuki is Aston Villa's signing of the season
Former goalkeeper Brad Friedel has praised Zion Suzuki, naming the Japan international as Aston Villa's standout signing of the current campaign.
Former Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel has heaped praise on Zion Suzuki, who joined the club this summer. The veteran shot-stopper believes the Japan international has already established himself as the club's "signing of the season."
Suzuki arrived for £30 million as Villa sought a replacement for Emi Martinez, who departed for Chelsea. Despite the pressure of filling the void left by such an influential figure, the 24-year-old has adapted seamlessly to Unai Emery’s tactical requirements.
Very good. I think most people, if you watch football, followed him and knew he's a good goalkeeper. I think he's been, at this moment in time, Aston Villa’s signing of the season. Brad Friedel
Friedel noted that the biggest challenge for a new arrival is the mental adjustment, especially when replacing a player of Martinez’s stature. While acknowledging a rare error against Fulham, Friedel insisted that Suzuki's overall performance level has been excellent. The goalkeeper is expected to start in this Sunday’s clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford.