Hugo Lloris set for talks with Andre Villas-Boas over Tottenham role

Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris is planning to have showdown talks with manager Andre Villas-Boas despite only joining the club ten days ago.

The £8m signing from Lyon, who is currently on duty with the French international squad, is in action for his country tonight against Belarus.

The 25-year-old is disappointed that Villas-Boas has said the veteran Brad Friedel is his number one.

“Obviously it’s never nice but we’ll see when we return on Wednesday,” he said.

“When I join up with the national team I concentrate uniquely and we’ll see about my personal situation when I go back.”

After his excellent performance against Norwich nine days ago, Friedel will continue in goal against Reading this Sunday.

Villas-Boas has found an unlikely supporter of his decision in rival manager Arsene Wenger.

The Arsenal boss said: “Brad Friedel saved Villas-Boas and he owes him a form of recognition — but it doesn’t mean he won’t play Hugo.

“When they see Hugo in training, they’ll understand quite quickly they’ve got a hell of a player.

The 41-year-old Friedel was understandably happier with his manager’s recent announcement.

He said: “Right now I believe the shirt is mine to lose, I believe the manager came out and said that. If that’s the case then great.”