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Chicago • Star goalkeeper Tim Howard is taking a one-year break from U.S. national team duties.
The three-time World Cup veteran has asked U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann not to consider him for selection to the roster until September 2015. Howard is not retiring from international play, however; the decision is driven mainly by his desire to spend more time with his family.
Howard, 35, will continue playing for Everton in the English Premier League.
Klinsmann and Howard had extensive conversations about Howard taking a break.
Howard starred in this year's World Cup in Brazil, particularly in a second-round 2-1 loss to Belgium in which he made 15 saves.
His backup on the national team is Brad Guzan, who also plays in the EPL for Aston Villa. Real Salt Lake's Nick Rimando was the third keeper at the World Cup.