Goalkeeper Tim Howard taking break from U.S. team

Goalkeeper Tim Howard is taking a one-year break from the U.S. national team because of a “commitment” to his family. The three-time World Cup veteran asked U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann to not consider him for the roster until September 2015. Howard, 35, will continue to play for Everton in the English Premier League. “Having played overseas for the last 12 years and missing out on spending time with my family, making this commitment to my family is very important at this time,” Howard said in a statement Thursday. “I look forward to coming back next fall and competing for a spot.” Howard is United States’ career leader for goalkeepers in appearances (104) and wins (55). He has played every minute for the U.S. in the last two World Cups. He will miss next summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup. – AP