Howard says he's fit for upcoming U.S. matches

Colorado Rapids shot-stopper Tim Howard says he's recovered from groin surgery and ready to help the United States' World Cup qualifying campaign.

Currently bottom of CONCACAF's Hexagonal final round of qualifiers, Bruce Arena's side play Honduras on Friday looking for a return to its winning ways.

"It's a huge game for us," Howard told reporters courtesy of ESPN FC. "It's helpful that we've had guys who have been through the Hex before, who understand what that takes and the pressures that are on us, but yeah, it's a big game."

Howard stretched on the sidelines Monday while the rest of the squad had its first training session in San Jose

Asked if he was back to 100 percent, Howard was candid, saying, "I'm 38, I don't think I'll ever be 100 percent again."

"That's every day for me now," the former Manchester United standout conceded. "Between now and the next three years, that's what every day looks like. It's a process, but hopefully it will pay off."

Related: Dempsey returns to USMNT for World Cup qualifiers in March

Named alongside Real Salt Lake's Nick Rimando and Middlesbrough's Brad Guzan, Howard is one of three veteran shot-stoppers to make Arena's 24-man squad, and while the former LA Galaxy gaffer has yet to name a starter for either of the matches, Howard reckons experience will be key.

"You hope you're experience gives you better angles, better positioning, and better decision-making," Howard said. "But I'm thankful that my reactions and my reflexes haven't slowed, so that's been a good thing. I probably take less risks, and I think that's helpful.

"Now is when we really earn our money, so I think everyone has come in very excited."

The USMNT will host Honduras at Avaya Stadium in San Jose on March 24 before making a trip to Panama for a tilt at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez on March 28.