Competition's no Brad thing; VILLA NEWS.

Byline: By Nick Davis 

BRAD Friedel believes fierce competition for places will be vital as Villa head into a packed schedule of games that could shape the season.

Starting with Monday's trip to Spurs, Villa face seven games in 21 days and Friedel insists Martin O'Neill has assembled a squad able to cope with such high demands.

The veteran keeper believes victory at White Hart Lane could act as a springboard and reflected: "We've made an OK start to the season and we want to build on that. We'll get plenty of opportunities to do that in the next few weeks.

"The period coming up is hectic but if we can start it off with a good result we'll want the next game to come along as quickly as possible.

"At this stage of the season it's not that big a deal to have a lot of games, as long as you look after your body and you recover in the proper way in between games.

"I wasn't here last season but the team worked ever so hard to get into Europe and then we've had to work hard to get through the Inter Toto and the qualifier. So we want an extended stay in Europe.

We have a very difficult tie against the Bulgarian side but we're looking forward to it.

"We can't look at all the games coming up. We just have to focus on the game at Tottenham on Monday.

"That will be a very difficult game.

"I know they haven't made the start they were all hoping for but they are a quality side."

Cup runs have been few and far between for Villa in recent seasons but Friedel is confident O'Neill's men can enjoy success in the knockout competitions this term.

He added: "The more games you have it means you're winning football games and if you're winning matches, everyone's in a good mood around the place and you're always looking forward to the next game.

"We've also got a bigger squad now so we can handle all these games. The bigger squad means we have to perform every single game.

"Competition for places is a must and we have that here now. The manager has brought in a lot of good players to add to those at the club already.

"There's a good feeling around the place with a lot of good lads in the dressing room, but the only way to keep that good feeling is by winning football matches."

CAPTION(S):

WINNING MENTALITY... Brad Friedel.