Business Off The Pitch: Tim Howard confirms absence from tonight’s match in Philadelphia

Posted Thursday, July 21, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

nited States national team goalkeeper Tim Howard confirmed this morning that he would not see any playing time this evening against the Philadelphia Union. Howard will not be included on the game day roster and also likely will not be in attendance at PPL Park as he continues his rest away from the pitch.

Despite the Philadelphia Union’s obvious disappointment with the decision, it is suggested that this was the plan from start regardless if that was formally communicated. In an interview, Howard commented on the decision.

"It was decided back a few months ago. We knew what was on the horizon. The Gold Cup was obviously long and grueling. I think getting rest is important - both physically and mentally - and every player has that opportunity. For me and some of the other participants in the Gold Cup, our opportunity for that rest came a lot later. Time is what it is. You cannot get it back and you cannot rush it. My rest and ability to heal up and get ready for the next season comes at this time unfortunately."

Howard also commented on the significance of European clubs such as Everton and Manchester United to utilize friendlies with Major League Soccer clubs as part of their preseason.

"First and foremost it says a ton about what top European clubs think of MLS that they would prepare for their grueling seasons against MLS competition. That says so much. For Everton, we get a kick out of coming over. This is my sixth season and probably my fifth preseason here playing MLS teams. Sometimes we get our butts kicked. That is the hard part of it all."

Fans can expect to see Tim Howard on the pitch for Everton’s match versus D.C. United on Saturday, July 23.

"Yes, I will be in D.C. and then after that we have few games scheduled," he said. "Ideally for me, I would like to get three or four games under my belt before the season starts, and then there is the USA game in Philadelphia, which I can also count. Before the opening game of the season on August 14th, I am hoping to have four games played and see how that goes."

Tim Howard did however advise that he is looking forward to the August 10 rematch against Mexico to be held at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

"I have not spoken to anyone," he said. "Yeah, the rematch is on. It will probably mean more to us than them at this point because they got the big one that counted, but the rematch is definitely there."