Whenever you think of Everton in the late 2000s to early 2010s, there are certain players who you always associate with that era of the club, one of which being Tim Howard.
Love this, @PLinUSA!
Blues, what’s your favourite @TimHowardGK moment? pic.twitter.com/xTINAHzRBa
— Everton in the USA (@EvertonInUSA) September 29, 2019
The former US international was the firm Toffees number one for the good part of 10 years, with Howard commanding the goalposts in Everton’s most successful period in the Premier League that saw the Merseyside club finish in the top-six on five different occasions.
And to commemorate the goalkeeper playing in his final professional game before retiring, Everton’s official US account paid homage to the former Toffee shot-stopper, prompting fans on social media to give their favourite memories of Howard before leaving the game forever.
Here is what some Everton supporters had to say on Twitter…
When he sent me a signed letter and photo… my absolute hero
— Nat (@FutboINat) September 29, 2019
another Goodison hero @paddockpk3 @GazS29#USAUSA
— John C Burrows (@John_buz) September 29, 2019
Too many to pick one single memory. He always gave his best and wore our badge with pride. #EFC
— Daz (@BluDazza17) September 29, 2019
We saw him in net against Bern Young Boys in the Europa League and he was amazing! It was a magical night! #ThanksTim
— Melinda Caliendo (@MCaliendo33) September 30, 2019
There was one moment, though, that seemed to stand above the rest…
His emotional goodbye speech against Norwich. He got to go out on a high. And that goal, of course.
— Lotte (@quadraspazzed) September 29, 2019
When he scored. Astonishing goal, plus the classy lack of celebration out of respect for the other keeper.
— Mark (@The_Wisco_Hawk) September 29, 2019
when he scored of course
— Stephen Price (@stephen97874293) September 29, 2019
His goal against Bolton!
— Adam Beswick (@ELC_NSNO) September 29, 2019
As numbers from Transfermarkt show, Howard had a storied time at Everton as the American icon made 414 appearances for the Premier League club.