TIMMY HAPPY WITH PROGRESS

Last updated : 11 June 2006 By Editor
Tim Howard doesn't mind playing understudy as long as he keeps improving as a player.

"There is just no comparison between where I am now and where I was three years ago," he said. "Of course I am on a learning curve and that increases by playing games and getting experience.

"But, in three years in England, that is what I have done and there is no question I am a better keeper for it."

Being number two won't phase him either.

"If it were the norm then I probably would have a concern, but the fact is I am 27 now and I have spent one year on the bench in my entire career. I don't see that as a reason to get upset or frustrated, it happens to everyone at some time."