The U.S. men's National soccer team is looking for a do-over. Coming off two November losses to begin the final stages of World Cup qualifying, the U.S. men's National team, has a new coach, and are hoping to get their starting goalie back.
“I'm getting there, says Tim Howard. “ I think I’m on the right track, at least that's what the surgeon says.”
Howard, rehabbing a groin injury sustained in the team's loss to Mexico last fall, hasn't held back on making sure his U.S. teammates pride isn't waning. "It means the absolute world to you, says Howard. “I think when you talk to players, and they talk about the biggest moment in their careers, oftentimes it's playing for their National team.”
And with Howard on the mend, the team has brought back Bruce Arena as head coach to replace the struggling Jurgen Klinsmann. Howard has immense respect for Arena, having previously played for him early in his career.
“He gave me my first cap”, says Howard. “I was young and I think when you're young you don't appreciate that as much. But over the years, I’ve grown as a player, he's gotten even better as a coach if that's possible.”
With a no nonsense coach, Howard knows his team and the pride of playing for their country are in a good spot. And as for him?
I asked him if he will be ready for qualifiers come March? “I hope so,” says Howard. “That would be a nice goal. But again, at the moment I am now, it's going to be step by step day by day.”
