http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?inewsid=50789
Peter Schmeichel believes Sir Alex Ferguson has unearthed a goalkeeping gem in American stopper Tim Howard.
The United boss has been on the look out for a top class 'keeper ever since Schmeichel left Old Trafford at the end of the 98/99 season.
Having seen the likes of Mark Bosnich, Massimo Taibi and more recently Fabien Barthez fall short in their quest to fill the huge void left by the Great Dane, Sir Alex plumped for the virtually unknown American 'keeper last summer, signing him for £3.5million.
Schmeichel, who is widely regarded as United's finest ever 'keeper, has been very impressed by Howard's performances so far this season and he believes the Amercian international has the potential to become an Old Trafford great in the coming years.
"It's only been half a season and I know what it's like when people put expectations on you just because you've started well," revealed Schmeichel.
"But Tim has done really well since joining United and he looks a great prospect. I'd like to see him carry on like that forever and also see him produce that consistency over time.
"That's what is really going to win the fans over - consistency. That's where trust is built and if Tim can maintain that over time, there's no telling how long he could be at United.
"The number of goalkeepers who came to United after me shows the kind of pressure there is in that position. But Tim has got something very valuable, and everybody can see that.
"He has the ability and confidence that could see him be a real success at United."
Howard has conceded just 13 goals in 19 games since his move to Manchester and Sir Alex has echoed Schmeichel's sentiments, hailing the American as "United's star performer" this season.
"He's quick, alert, agile, courageous and has speed," explained the United boss. "I thought I might have to leave him out for a bit in October, but it hasn't happened. If you look at the other players we brought in over the summer, they all had experience at the top level.
"Kleberson had won the World Cup, Eric Djemba-Djemba was a Cameroon international, Cristiano Ronaldo was playing in Portugal's top league with Sporting Lisbon, while David Bellion had played in the Premiership with Sunderland.
"Tim didn't have any of that experience, so there was bound to be a question mark hanging over him. But he's proved himself worthy of his place in the side and been a revelation for us," added Sir Alex.
Tim Howard shines again [Everton]
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