Leon goalkeeper William Yarbrough (pictured) has earned two caps for the USA. (Photo: Victor Straffon/Straffon Images)
MIAMI SHORES, Florida -- As well as goalkeepers Tim Howard and Brad Guzan have performed for the United States, they won't be able to play forever.
The veterans are getting older. Howard is 37-years-old, Guzan is 32. Even perennial third-choice Nick Rimando is 37.
Addressing the situation of an aging custodial corps is one of the reasons why head coach Jurgen Klinsmann decided to bring in three goalkeepers, who have a three caps between them, for upcoming friendlies against Cuba and New Zealand.
The trio includes William Yarbrough (27-years-old, 2 caps, Leon/Mexico), David Bingham (26, 1, San Jose Earthquakes and Ethan Horvath (21, 0, Molde/Norway). Horvath was a member of the USA’s Copa America Centenario roster this past summer, but did not see any action.
“Obviously we have the two experienced guys with Tim Howard and Brad Guzan. Both are in different situations right now," stated Klinsmann, noting that Howard is preparing for the Major League Soccer playoffs with the Colorado Rapids and Guzan has made only two appearances for Middlesbrough in the English Premier League. "It’s a perfect time to give an open window to three younger goalkeepers. That’s why we decided to leave the two older guys out and give these three youngsters a chance to prove their point. That kind of opportunity is very rare.”
Although Klinsmann hasn't announced his starter for Friday's match at Cuba, Bingham felt it was a great opportunity for whomever is selected.
"There's three goalies here for a reason and it's up to us to take the chance that we're given,” remarked Bingham, who has conceded 35 goals in 31 MLS games this season, "I hope it's (play in MLS) impressed him a lot. It's gotten me back here for another look so I am excited about that."
