Former Manchester United star follows David Beckham as he becomes part owner of MLS franchise

Ex-Manchester United star Tim Howard has followed in his former teammate David Beckham’s footsteps by joining an MLS franchise .

Howard, who played for United from 2003 to 2007, has joined the group that owns MLS side Houston Dynamos as well as the women’s team Houston Dash as a minority investor.

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A statement from majority owner and chairman Ted Segal announced the former United States international on Tuesday.

It read: “His wealth of experience across soccer, both as a player at the highest levels and subsequently as a sporting director and media analyst, will be invaluable within ownership as we continue to build a competitive and successful organisation.

“Moreover, Tim’s commitment to using his unique platform to positively impact communities in need aligns with the values of our organization.”

It is not the first time that Howard has ventured into football ownership, having been a part of the group that owned Memphis 901 FC in the United Soccer League in 2018.

He even played for his own club, making six appearances in 2020 and they currently play in the USL Championship, under the MLS as a Division II league.

During his playing career, the former goalkeeper made 121 appearances for the United States national team from 2002 to 2017.

He was affectionately nicknamed ‘the Secretary of Defense’ after his stunning performance against Belgium in the 2014 World Cup, breaking the record for most saves in a World Cup match with 15.

As well as United, Howard perhaps is best remembered for his time at Everton.

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After joining the Toffees initially on loan in 2006, he went on to sign permanently and made 414 appearances over 10 years.

“As someone who has dedicated my life to the sport of soccer, I am thrilled to join the Houston Dash and Dynamo ownership group,” Howard said.

“This opportunity allows me to further contribute to the growth of the game in the United States and connect with the passionate soccer fans who call Houston home.”

Beckham might have blazed the trail for former players to take charge of clubs after starting up his own franchise.

In 2014, the former England international led an ownership group that started a new club that went on to become Inter Miami.

They have since become a powerhouse in the transfer market, signing Lionel Messi last summer in an earth-shattering deal for the MLS.

The Miami-based side have also brought in his pals and Barcelona legends Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.