Howard considering USA retirement

The shot-stopper was in stunning form for Jurgen Klinsmann's men, despite their World Cup elimination against Belgium, but he may not appear again on the international stage

USA goalkeeper Tim Howard has cast doubt on his international future after admitting he is contemplating retirement. Howard produced a heroic man-of-the-match performance against Belgium in the last-16 clash in Salvador on Tuesday but it could not prevent USA from bowing out of the World Cup following a 2-1 defeat in extra-time.


The 35-year-old broke the World Cup record for number of saves made in a single match, eclipsing the 13 set by Peru's Ramon Quiroga in 1978.


But, with Howard advancing in years, the 2018 World Cup in Russia may be a bridge too far for the 104-cap Everton veteran.


"What happens going forward with the national team, I don't know," Howard told reporters.


"Everything's a bit raw at the moment. I don't think it's black and white to be honest.

"There's no doubt barring injury that I'll be fit and willing to keep going, but there's a lot more things that go into that decision than just my physical health, so it's something that in time I'll decide on."


If the Everton shot-stopper, who signed a new four-year deal with the Premier League club in April, does not make it through to the next World Cup, he has already earmarked Aston Villa keeper Brad Guzan - capped 25 times - as the man to take his place.


"I would imagine at the moment the way things look, I think Brad Guzan," Howard said.


"He's a top Premier League goalkeeper, a dear friend and his talent is incredible."