The U.S. Soccer Federation confirmed on Thursday that Tim Howard will be absent from the national team until September of 2015 following a request from the goalkeeper. As stated by the U.S. Soccer Federation, the USMNT head coach Jurgen Klinsmann agreed with his first-choice goalkeeper to not consider him for national selection until next year, as Howard wants to spend more time with his family.
“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,” the Everton player said.
“I am grateful for the willingness of both 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.”
On the other hand, Jurgen Klinsmann also expressed his thoughts regarding Tim’s decision.
“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 that we always see performing well, he will be welcome back with open arms and right back competing for a spot. He knows that he has to prove that he deserves to be back.”
Tim Howard has made 104 appearances with the U.S. national team and he had an outstanding performance during this year’s World Cup in Brazil, especially in the dramatic match against Belgium in the Round of 16 that saw the Americans getting knocked out in extra time. Howard is currently the starting goalkeeper for English Premier League side Everton and is expected to miss at least eight friendlies with the USMNT and the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup to be held in the United States.
Via Twitter, Tim Howard officially confirmed the news. Reactions from the fans followed; most of them expressing their support and gratitude towards the goalkeeper.
@TimHowardGK good for you, more than deserved! Thank you for all that you've done for this country and it's team!! Good luck in the #EPL :)
— Bryan Miller (@bmiller1804) August 21, 2014
mad respect for @TimHowardGK thank you for all you've done for @ussoccer!! already awaiting the return of the best! #timmyforpresident
— 9⃣ (@MoneyMikeyGibbs) August 21, 2014
Tim Howard taking taking time off from USMNT. Sad sad day, great keeper and even better leader. Threw the US on his back against Belgium
— Josh Meier (@JoshMeier12) August 21, 2014 
