PK Wizard Tim Howard named USA’s starting goalkeeper

While announcing his final roster for the beginning of the final round of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying, Jurgen Klinsmann made an announcement of sorts. He revealed to Rob Stone on the Facebook Live event that Tim Howard will be the U.S. men’s national team’s starting goalkeeper.

As last as this summer in the Copa America Centenario, Brad Guzan had control of the starting job. Ever since his demise at Aston Villa and his transfer to Middlesbrough, his club playing time has vanished, thus leaving Tim Howard the default No. 1.

It also doesn’t hurt that Howard has been in fine form since joining the Colorado Rapids in July. Just today he made two key saves in a penalty shootout to lift his team to the Western conference finals:

In the most recent round of matches, Guzan and Howard have been a part of a platoon for the goalkeeping job. But, Howard’s consistent playing time and good form have ultimately won him back the job now that the games are crucial again.

Are you surprised by this move? Is it the right decision?