It’s only for a year. Don’t even trip.
Before anyone gets alarmed by the news, just know, he is not retiring.
Tim Howard has decided to take a break from the U.S. Men’s National Team to spend time with his family, but will still continue his duties in the Premiere League at Everton. The superstar goalie will not return to action for the U.S. until September of 2015, putting his run of 104 games played for the national team on hold.
Howard has played in two World Cups for the United States (2010, 2014), and just finished an incredible run in Brazil this past June, before their loss to Belgium. His absence will not affect his status for the 2018 cup in Russia, but it will mean Jurgen Klinsmann will be without him for the CONCACAF Gold Cup next Summer.
“I have decided to take some time off from the U.S. Men’s National Team in order to spend more time with my family. Having played overseas for the last 12 years, making this commitment to my family is very important. I am grateful for the understanding of Jurgen Klinsmann who is affording me the opportunity to spend some much needed time with my kids and to have the opportunity to compete for a spot upon my return. I understand that I will have to earn my place with the team and in the lineup when I come back, and I look forward to doing that. Physically I feel as strong as ever, and right now my heart, mind, and body all feel good about continuing on with the national team for the next World Cup. It is difficult to predict the situation in four years but I know this decision is right for me today.“
We’ll see you next year, Tim!
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