Columbus Crew Boss: ‘I Haven’t Had Any Discussions’ With Brad Friedel

Columbus Crew Technical Director Brian Bliss is throwing some cold water on the rumors of Brad Friedel’s imminent return to MLS.

Responding to a report in an English tabloid that said former the United States Men’s National Team and current Aston Villa goalkeeper has contacted the Columbus Crew about possibly joining the team as a player/coach, Bliss said this:

“I haven’t had any discussions,” Bliss told MLSsoccer.com.

It wasn’t all bad news for those hoping to see Friedel return to the team where he started his professional career, though. Bliss did reveal that Friedel has been in contact with the Crew in the past during past transfer windows.

“Usually in the transfer window periods he’s called asking, ‘Is there any chance I can get in?’ I think he wants to come home. I don’t know about now, but I can tell you Brad has called, to my knowledge, every July and January or every December the last two years.”

Assuming William Hesmer has recovered from his season-ending injury, goalkeeper does not seem to be a position in which the Crew are in much need. Although Hesmer had a bit of a down year last season, he has been one of the league’s top goalkeepers over the past four seasons and his just 29.