UK, July 13: Manchester United are expected to complete the signing of United States goalkeeper Tim Howard on Monday after the 24-year-old received his English work permit. Howard is expected to travel to England on Sunday before undergoing a medical on Monday.

"It's great for me," said Howard. "I just need to get better and work harder.

"If I get to start some games, that's great. If I'm a reserve in some games, that's great.

"I'm so happy. It's been a long time, and I feel so fortunate. Not many people get the opportunity that's been given to me. I feel blessed.
"Obviously, the national team is a big issue and I need to be playing and getting better."

Earlier, Former Scotland international Mo Johnston, now an assistant coach with New York New Jersey Metro Stars, confirmed the departure of his side's keeper to BBC Sport.

And Johnston believes the signing of the US international is a major coup for United.

"He's a wonderful goalkeeper, tremendously agile, and I'm sure he'll be a success in England," Johnston told BBC Scotland.

Howard has been in outstanding form in America's MLS this season and was overwhelmingly selected as goalkeeper for the end-of-season All-Star game. He polled more votes from the league's coaches than any other player.

The 24-year-old suffers from Tourette's Syndrome, a neurological disorder that causes nervous tics and uncontrolled verbal outbursts.

Johnston joined MetroStars in December last year as assistant to head coach Bob Bradley.

He made his mark in the United States as a player with Kansas City Whiz, helping them to the 2000 MLS Cup championship.

Johnston retired in 2001 after six seasons in America, having already played 15 seasons in England, Scotland and France.

Howard is due to link up with Manchester United on their pre-season tour of the United States.