[USA] Tim Howard is expected to be in goal Friday when the USA faces Slovenia at the World Cup after doctors examined him Monday and determined no further tests were needed on his bruised ribs.

The Everton star was injured in a collision with Emile Heskey in Saturday's 1-1 tie against England but is making "substantial improvement," according to U.S. Soccer.

Howard earned FIFA's player of the game honors for his play in the game.

He was called upon to make several critical saves after Heskey cleated Howard when they both went for the ball fairly in the 29th minute.

Howard later said he was in agony. He took a pain-killing shot at halftime.