Friedel warns of American surprise

Friedel, an English League Cup winner this season with premier league side Blackburn Rovers, says the United States are capable of going beyond the first phase which will see them face Portugal, Poland and co-hosts South Korea.

'I feel we are in a good position because, in the world's eyes, if we went out in the first round that would be considered normal,' he told Reuters on Tuesday.

'However, we expect ourselves to go further and feel we can go further - so it's a no-lose situation.

'That's the best kind of position to be in because you occasionally catch teams thinking you are going to be a pushover.'