If Brad Friedel Were Spurs Number 1 I’d Have to Think About Hugo Lloris France Role – Didier Deschamps

Tuesday, 4th September, 2012

France coach Didier Deschamps has admitted that if Hugo Lloris were to be the number 2 goalkeeper at Tottenham Hotspur, he would have to give consideration to the 25-year-old’s spot in the national team.

Lloris, who is France’s current number 1, made the move from Lyon to Spurs on transfer deadline day, taking his first leap outside his homeland.

The shot-stopper watched on however as Brad Friedel put on a fine display between the sticks for Spurs in their 1-1 home draw against Norwich City at the weekend, a performance which led club boss Andre Villas-Boas to declare that the number 1 jersey is firmly the American’s for now.

While these were not welcome words for Lloris, Deschamps can only see a situation developing at national team level if the goalkeeper is clearly number 2 and loses playing time to Friedel.

And it is a prospect that Deschamps does not want to think about just yet – though he is sure it would have to occupy his thoughts if it did happen.

"I am not going to create a problem that I do not need to have today", said the France coach.

"But, if it were to happen, then it would deserve some consideration", he added.

"I do not want Hugo to find himself in this situation, even if he did not appreciate the comments."

Lloris will hope to quickly dislodge Friedel as Spurs’ number 1 goalkeeper, not just in order to enjoy the challenge of the Premier League, but also to safeguard his international place.

The shot-stopper has won 38 caps over a four-year stint with France so far.