For reasons far beyond his smashing first Premier League goal for Hull City, Jozy Altidore deserves multiple pats on the back.
There is a tremendous interview with him in the Daily Mail this morning, showcasing the youngster's decency and modesty as he explains his familial connections with Haiti and admits to helping the relief effort with both campaigns and his own money.
This proves beyond all doubt that the youthful American striker, whose parents are both Haitian, knows where his priorities lie even within an industry renowned, perhaps unfairly at times, for the selfishness and indolence of those earning the biggest money. His story is thoughtful and personal, and he accepts that while his work to help his nation of origin continues, he also has a job to do in Hull.
And with that excellent goal, the opener in the 2-1 win over Manchester City, he is truly doing that job. With Altidore's recent form as a worker and provider for his team, it had become less of an issue that this powerful centre forward had not yet provided a goal in 17 Premier League appearances. But now that duck has been broken, and broken with real finesse too, he may just be inspired. He certainly doesn't look like the sort of striker who doesn't get many goals - many of his near-misses were on target - so renewed hope will be on his broad shoulders that more of the same is due.
For all the impatience with players that football fans can show, there has been tremendous goodwill for Altidore so far. It is a refreshing brand of patience which has taken into account the player's age, new surroundings and the pace of the game he is now expected to play. He is also just naturally likeable and has given from day one the impression that he is honoured to be with the Tigers. The perseverance of Altidore has paid off for him, and now he looks like a Premier League player. He is fit, exudes power, has real pace and a real thirst for hard work.
He was beginning to show these attributes week on week, but the tiny doubt remained while his Premier League goal record was nil. Now that final hurdle has been cleared, who knows what he can go on to do?
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