Match of the Day Pundit Champions ‘Rock Solid’ Tottenham Star

Match of the Day pundit Alan Hansen has praised Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel by claiming the veteran American's arrival at White Hart Lane in the summer has taken the club onto the next level.

Spurs' previous incumbent, Heurelho Gomes, was too often culpable for making mistakes that cost Tottenham points but Friedel has brought an authority and an assurance that has patently been integral to their superb form this season.

Hansen believes Harry Redknapp should get plenty of credit for taking a gamble on the 40-year-old free transfer given his advancing years and Tottenham now have the foundation in place to enable their array of attacking players to thrive in the Premier League.

Tottenham's transfer activity has been rightfully praised considering the impact made by Scott Parker and Emmanuel Adebayor this season, but Hansen suggests Friedel has been equally impressive for the north London Premier League club.

"Redknapp was quite cute in the way he brought in Friedel. After some of Heurelho Gomes' mistakes last season, he kept saying the Brazilian is a top-class keeper and wouldn't be replacing him. Then he went and brought in Friedel." Hansen told the BBC.

"Friedel has got years and years of experience and has done exceptionally well. He is rock solid even though he is the wrong side of 40.

"It all means that, with the way Spurs play, they have still got power, pace and a potent attacking force but they are also effective defensively - so they have everything in place."

Tottenham's victory over Everton on Wednesday night meant Spurs closed the gap on league leaders Manchester City to just three points and drew them level with defending champions Manchester United.

In the aftermath of their win, Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp admitted he now believed his side were genuine title challengers.

"It's not impossible for us to win the league,'' The Tottenham manager said. ''We have a chance. The players believe we have a good chance."

Tottenham host Wolves on Saturday at White Hart Lane and a win over Mick McCarthy's side would take Spurs level on points with Manchester City, as they do not play Wigan until Monday night.