Tim Howard announced on Thursday that he will take a one-year break from the United States national team to spend more time with his family.
US coach Jurgen Klinsmann will not select Howard until September 2015, according to ESPNFC. This means Howard will be missing out on next summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup.
“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,” said Howard. “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.”
Even though Howard has been the first-choice keeper since 2007, Klinsmann completely supports his decision.
“We had a very good and productive conversation,” said Klinsmann. “I totally understand Tim’s situation. He was very straight forward 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.”
Source: ESPNFC