Tim Howard won’t return in time for Colorado Rapids’ season opener against New England Revolution, the Denver Post has been able to confirm.

The former Everton and Manchester United goalkeeper is still recovering from surgery that took place last November. While a return for their first match of the MLS season was possible, the chance would have been slim.

Rapids coach Pablo Mastroeni told the local press that while rehab is going well, they have to be cautious:

He was having some pain last week, the medical staff, we decided to allow that to heal. Had an MRI, everything looks like it’s intact, it’s good…With Tim, we’ll take it one day at a time.

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Howard returned to the MLS last summer after a long spell with Everton that saw him make over 400 appearances over 11 seasons. He made 17 appearances for Colorado last season, with the side finishing second in the Western Conference.

The Rapids may also be without striker Shkëlzen Gashi, who is having issues with his Achilles. There is positive news for the side, as new signing Alan Gordon is available after recovering from shoulder surgery.