Howard absence riles MLS clubs

Everton’s decision to rest Tim Howard from two pre-season friendlies has been met with disappointment in the United States.

The English Premier League side will face MLS teams Philadelphia Union and DC United on Wednesday and Sunday respectively without the American goalkeeper between the posts.

Howard represented the USA in their unsuccessful Gold Cup campaign in June, prompting Everton boss David Moyes to rest the gloveman with only weeks until the start of the new season.

But Union CEO and operating partner Nick Sakiewicz said it was disappointing fans would not get to see the national team star.

“We were under the impression he was coming and playing,” Sakiewicz said. “We’re obviously disappointed he is not coming but it will be a good game anyway.”

“We understand the need to rest players and have no issue with that. It just would have been nice to know.”

Moyes defended the decision and said it was obvious that Howard would not be available for the tour.

“Would you not know that if he played for the national team all summer that there would be a rest and he wouldn’t be here?” Moyes said.

Everton kick off their English Premier League campaign against Tottenham at Goodison Park on August 13.