The latest episode of the EPL Talk Podcast is now available, which features an exclusive interview with Reading and U.S. goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann.

Hahnemann is arguably the top U.S. keeper in the world right now with Friedel faltering a little behind a weakened defence at Blackburn, and Kasey Keller (Borussia Monchengladbach) and Tim Howard (Everton) doing well.

Whether you’re a Reading fan or not, I encourage you to listen to the interview. You’ll hear some interesting comments from Hahnemann about his former boss Alan Pardew, how Eddie Johnson coped with the trial at Reading, what he dressed up as recently on the training ground and what guests spent Thanksgiving Day with him.

As with most EPL Talk Podcast interviews, we also ask the questions that often stump the guests (partly because they’re used to hearing the same sort of questions from other reporters). For example, Hahnemann talks about what he misses most about America now that he’s living in the UK.

It must have been about six years ago when I saw Hahnemann in goal for the Colorado Rapids against the Miami Fusion at Lockhart Stadium in South Florida. While Hahnemann was between the posts at the Rapids, Tim Howard was impressing the MLS crowds for New York/New Jersey Metrostars. Who would have thought that six years later both keepers would be two of the top keepers in the Premiership?

Enjoy the interview, and stay tuned for the next episode of the EPL Talk Podcast — which will be a special holiday edition.

PS – If you enjoy(ed) the interview with Marcus, read this interesting article by him where he breaks down his matchday rituals and shares some insightful comments about his preparations.