Tim Howard signed up for NBC's Premier League coverage

Everton and the United States goalkeeper Tim Howard has been signed by broadcaster NBC Sports Group for an analyst position during the upcoming Premier League season. Howard appeared in the commentary booth several times in the previous season when Everton were not playing, and will reprise this role this year as well. He will be working as both an in-game and studio analyst depending on the travel required during the season. During games he will be backing up Arlo White who retains his color commentary post, while he will join another Everton legend Gary Lineker for on-site studio duties.

During this summer's World Cup in Brazil, Blues manager Roberto Martinez appeared as an analyst on ESPN telecasts, and was widely-praised for his well-rounded observations and comments. His tactical nous was visible for all to see as he broke down games with ease and was able to explain strategies in layman terms.

Howard has been capped 104 times for the USMNT, and has won 55 games in national colors, both records. He recently extended his contract with Everton through till the end of the 2017-18 season. The New Jersey native has praised his current manager Martinez for helping him improve his perception of the game ahead of him, which has then allowed him to shorten his reaction time by premeditating events. American audiences can look forward to hearing more such insights as the season progresses.

"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."

The goalie will be entering his twelfth season in the Premier League, eight of which have been with Everton. After a spectacular series of performances during the World Cup, his popularity both within the USA and abroad are at an all time high as has the interest in Everton among football fans worldwide. He has quickly become one of the most recognizable faces of the game and is considered a brand ambassador for various sporting goods.

Howard had this to say about his time behind the microphone:

"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."

To commemorate Howard's stellar tournament and the beginning of the new season, Everton USA groups around the country will be holding a Tim Howard Appreciation Day nationwide on Aug 16th as the Blues take on newcomers Leicester City to kickoff the League.