HOWARD SIGNS

Last updated : 16 July 2003 By Editor

American goalkeeper Tim Howard has put pen to paper and signed for United on a four-year contract. He seems over the moon about the transfer. He said:

"I am overjoyed to be signing for the best club in the world and look forward to getting the business done and performing to the best of my abilities on the field."

"It is a fantasy to think I will play here, and when the interest came it was very humbling."

He isn't expecting to usurp Barthez too soon though.

"I just need to get better and work harder.

"If I get to start some games, that's great. If I'm a reserve in some games, that's great.

"I'm so happy. It's been a long time, and I feel so fortunate. Not many people get the opportunity that's been given to me. I feel blessed.

"Obviously, the national team is a big issue and I need to be playing and getting better."

And for those of you who like this sort of thing, here are Tim's vital statistics:

Born: 6 March 1979. New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
Height: 1.95m.
Weight: 88.5 kilos