The biggest star of the World Cup in the United States will be pulling double duty for at least a couple more seasons to help promote the beautiful game in America.
NBC announced Tuesday that Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard — starting keeper for the United States at the 2014 World Cup — signed a multi-year deal to serve as an analyst for the network’s EPL coverage, while continuing to serve as Everton’s starting keeper in the league himself. Howard’s contract with the Toffees runs through the 2017-18 season, so don’t consider it a deal to ensure a transition to life after soccer just yet.
On weekends when it’s feasible for him to do so, Howard will broadcast 10 matches for the networks of NBC. He will either be in the booth with Arlo White, or as an on-site studio analyst with host Gary Lineker. NBC brags that “in the seven matches immediately prior to Howard’s NBCSN appearances, Everton recorded six victories and one loss.”
“Tim had an impressive debut on our telecasts last season and we are excited to have him join our Premier League team on a more extensive basis,” said Pierre Moossa, coordinating producer of NBC Sports Group’s Premier League coverage. “As an active Premier League player, he contributes unique perspective and insight to our broadcasts.”
“I had such a great experience last season and am excited and honored to re-join the NBC Sports team,” said Howard. “Their coverage of the Premier League is fantastic and helps bring the passion of the games to America. I look forward to doing what I can to add to that.”
Critics ranged from mixed-to-positive on Howard’s work last season, though most on the NBC crew agreed he got better as he went along. It will be interesting to see if Howard develops into someone NBC keeps in their long-term plans after he does retire. Of course, all EPL TV deals are short term, so who knows what the future will bring.
