Rapids Goalie Tim Howard Pulls Muscle In Right Leg Playing For U.S.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard pulled a muscle in his right leg during Friday night's 2-1 loss to Mexico in a World Cup qualifier and was replaced by Brad Guzan late in the first half.

Howard, who just regained the starting job from Guzan, was hurt while taking a goal kick about 35 minutes in. He was down on the field for 2 minutes while trainers worked with him, and he remained in the match. But after making a save in the 38th, he signaled to the bench that he needed to be replaced.

Howard was to have a scan Saturday, and U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann said he was doubtful for Tuesday's qualifier at Costa Rica.

"He knows it's not looking that good," Klinsmann said.

Howard, 37, started for the U.S. at the last two World Cups. He took a one-year sabbatical after the 2014 tournament and alternated with Guzan when he returned, and Guzan started at this year's Copa America.

While Howard is playing regularly in his first season after leaving Everton for Colorado, the 32-year-old Guzan hasn't appeared for Middlesbrough since August. The Rapids play Seattle in the Western Conference finals on Nov. 22 and 27.

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