American keepers have been successful at the highest levels of English football. Everton’s Tim Howard (who started his English footballing career at Manchester United) might be one of the best.

Howard has been instrumental in leading Everton to the 2009 FA Cup Final against Chelsea. The final will be played May 30th at Wembley, and is the oldest football competition in the world.

Tim Howard and the Everton defense has also been given credit for an Everton record 16 cleansheets this season. After Everton’s 0-0 tie this weekend, Everton has gained a place in next season’s UEFA Cup. Any season that Everton earns a place in a European competition is a good season.

Howard, who is the number one keeper for the United States national team, is expected to lead the US to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.