Everton FC News: ENGLAND legend Gordon Banks believes Tim Howard will be the best goalkeeper on the pitch when England face the USA tomorrow.

Everton keeper Howard is likely to face opposite number David James as the two nations meet in Group C to get their World Cup campaigns underway in Rustenburg.

While Portsmouth goalkeeper, James, is favourite to get the nod over West Ham’s Robert Green and Manchester City youngster Joe Hart, Howard is a certain starter for the United States.

“I really like Tim Howard,” said Banks.

“Tim might even be better than David James.

“In fact I was very surprised when Alex Ferguson sold him, I really was.”

Meanwhile, Howard claims the experience of last year’s Confederations Cup in South Africa will stand the USA in good stead in the coming weeks.

Howard picked up the Golden Glove award as the United States defeated European champions Spain in the semi-final to set up a final with Brazil.

Despite letting a two-goal lead slip to lose 3-2 in Johannesburg, Howard says the USA players took plenty of positives from the tournament and will benefit from being in familiar surroundings again.

“We did well in the Confederations Cup last year in South Africa so we hope we are mature enough to draw on those experiences,” said Howard.

“I think being in South Africa, knowing the people and training at the grounds there helps you.

“We were there for three-and-a-half weeks so we now hope this time it’ll feel like we have been there before. That could help us and help keep the build up calm and relaxed.”

The USA’s success at the Confederations Cup has improved their standing in the world game and they are tipped to progress from Group C with England.

Howard expects England, Brazil and Spain to stand out in South Africa, where he is looking forward to testing himself against some of the world’s best strikers.

“As a keeper you think about coming up against the top players at the tournament,” he said.

“The likes of Didier Drogba and Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo’s bravado and flair and swagger have been fantastic for the game.

“We played Argentina a few years back and Lionel Messi was untouchable so hopefully we don’t have to come up against them.

“But if you want to get far in the tournament you have to expect to come up against those guys.

“I think England will do really well. Of course I think Brazil will be great as they always are. Spain should do well too and they have many young players who are world class.”