Western Counties Soccer

Everton are likely to be in the transfer market for a new goalkeeper after releasing Jan Mucha last season. American International Tim Howard is the recognised first-team goalkeeper at the club.

After the arrival of Roberto Martinez as the new manager at Goodison Park, there could be possible changes in several areas of the pitch. Everton could go out and sign a replacement goalkeeper, who could provide a real competition for Howard. The former Manchester United man, though, has said that he is intent on keeping his first-team spot under Martinez as well.

Even though he initially struggled in his first few years in the Premier league, Howard has managed to establish himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the English league now. The 34-year-old is also at the stage in his career when playing regularly is important to him.

Even though he is a goalkeeper and still has almost 4 years of top-level playing left in him, Howard is not taking any chances. He was once again at his imperious best in the World Cup qualifying match for United States against Honduras. He kept a clean sheet in the match that helped United States move one step closer towards securing a place at the 2014 World Cup.

“You have to be more diligent as you age. I train hard; I don’t miss training. You have to keep a good rhythm. I have to mind my age. My maintenance is higher. I lift weights harder and heavier than I ever have now at 34, to keep my body fit. When I was younger, I just relied on my athleticism because I didn’t have the other piece of the puzzle. Now that I have that experience I don’t try to go looking for things to do to show you how athletic I am," said Howard.