USA goalkeeper, Tim Howard has announced he will take a break from international football for a year as he aims to spend more time with his family.
The Everton shot-stopper had a stellar World Cup in goals for the Stars and Stripes in their run to the Round of 16, producing a number of fine saves for Jurgen Klinsmann’s side.
Yet after discussions with his national manager, the 35-year-old requested to take a break from international football until September next year as he wishes to focus more on his personal life.
Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has revealed that he is taking a break from international football with the United States until September 2015.
“Having played overseas for the last 12 years and missing out on spending time with my family, making this commitment to my family is very important at this time,” Howard said in a statement released by the USA soccer federation.
“I am grateful for the willingness of both [U.S. Coach] Jurgen Klinsmann and Everton Manager Roberto Martinez to afford me the opportunity to spend time with my kids.
“It’s the right decision at the right time. Jurgen has always been up front with all the players in saying you have to earn your place, which is something I agree with, so I look forward to coming back next fall and competing for a spot.”[eap_ad_2]
National coach Klinsmann said he fully understood and respected Howard’s request.
“We had a very good and productive conversation,” he revealed. “I totally understand Tim’s situation. He was very straightforward and honest in his approach, and I admire him for that.
“He has a wish to take a step back to take care of his family, and we came to the conclusion that it’s absolutely fine that he takes time off from international soccer until after next summer’s Gold Cup, and then we reevaluate.
“I told him as long as he is the same Tim Howard we always see performing well, he will be welcome back with open arms and right back competing for a spot. He knows he has to prove that he deserves to be back.
“This gives us a huge opportunity to see Brad Guzan and Nick Rimando going forward and fighting for the No. 1 spot.”
Howard has made 104 appearances for the USA since making his debut in 2002, and has featured in three World Cups for his country. (kickoffnigeria)[eap_ad_3]