The 37-year-old has ended his eight-season association with Blackburn and will link up with his new team-mates at Villa's Bodymoor Heath training ground on Monday after watching the Intertoto Cup win over Odense BK.

Friedel, who was also interesting Manchester City, made the move after Rovers completed the signing of Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson on Friday.

The United States international told www.avfc.co.uk: "Making this move was a very easy decision and a very difficult decision to make all at the same time.

"I'd been at Blackburn eight years and this was going to be my ninth season. The fans and everyone at the club have been terrific with me.

"In saying that I'm really excited to be here at Aston Villa. Being able to work with these players, with Martin O'Neill and with Mr (Randy) Lerner (club owner) is exciting for me.

"I've really got the feeling this club is going places and that's the main reason why I'm here."

Friedel added: "Martin was the main factor in my moving to Villa. I know a lot has been said about my Cleveland connection and my United States connection with Mr Lerner. I have spoken to him and he's a fantastic guy.

"But it was all down to Martin and the ambition of the club, also Martin's relationship with his chairman, the tremendous players here and the other players they want to bring in to make the squad bigger, stronger and better.

"I know there was a lot going on in the press about Manchester City but from day one it was always Aston Villa.

"Aston Villa were ever so professional in the manner that they dealt with everything and I couldn't be happier. I'm very pleased to be here.

"Hopefully things will go well for us this season. No one player ever makes a team but I'll just come in here and try to do the best I can.

"Hopefully we can improve on last year. Sixth was good but if we can move into fifth or fourth that would be fantastic."