Soccer-U.S. looking for momentum, says Howard

By Mark Gleeson

PRETORIA, June 13 (Reuters) - The United States will get more value out of using the Confederations Cup for confidence building than actually chasing the title at the World Cup test event, goalkeeper Tim Howard said on Saturday.

Howard said building on momentum towards next year's World Cup was the top priority for the Americans, who open their campaign at the two-week tournament against world champions Italy in Pretoria on Monday.

"Let's face it, we are not one of the favourites. We have Brazil and Italy in our group, so it's hard to say we are here to win," he told Reuters on Saturday.

"But to use this tournament to build up our momentum game by game and looking forward to 2010 this is a great opportunity."

The Everton keeper said he relished the chance to play against top strikers from Italy and Brazil.

"I believe I play in the best league in the world, so I am up against top quality strikers all the time. As a professional, if you don't test yourself against the best you won't know your own ability."

But after an arduous season in the Premier League and the disappointment of an FA Cup final loss, Howard acknowledged it was not easy to keep focused.

"We all face that challenge but if you want to be recognised as a full international or recognised as someone at the top of your game, then that's what is required," he said.