Toronto FC: Time to Stop Doubting Importance of Jozy Altidore

Criticize Jozy Altidore all you want, but those who know the Toronto FC striker, appreciate how good he is and what he can do on the pitch.

Sebastian Giovinco is undoubtedly Toronto FC‘s — and MLS’s — top player. However, he would be the first to admit that playing with Jozy Altidore makes him even better.

As arguably the best target man in the league, Altidore uses his strength to hold up the ball and opening up things for the 2015 MLS MVP and his other teammates. Throw in his defensive work, movement and overall effort, and there is no denying the importance of the 26-year old.

The problem is, no matter how much of a well-rounded player Altidore is, his lack of goals this season had people unfairly criticizing him. And while some of this can be put down to people not understanding football, it didn’t stop critics, who also questioned his ability to stay healthy with his ongoing hamstring issues.

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In truth, the two go hand-in-hand. If someone has been out injured, it’s going to take them some time to get back into the flow of things.

In fact, TFC coach Greg Vanney made a point of putting the former 17th overall MLS draft pick on the subs bench, when he first returned from his latest hamstring injury. The decision proved to be a smart move.

Altidore has gradually warmed up and now has four goals in his last five games. The latest came against the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, as he scored the crucial third in a 3-1 win.

Altidore spoke to Dave Zeitlin and the rest of the media after the game, about his recent contributions: “It’s obviously important to want to help the team as we come to that push for the playoffs.

“Just to be out here and contributing, it felt good. I’m happy to be out here tonight.”

Unsurprisingly, the Livingston, New Jersey native’s contributions have extended to other areas of his game, since returning to the lineup. This includes assisting on three goals, putting him well on course to set a new single-season personal best.

Apr 23, 2016; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco (10) reacts with forward Jozy Altidore (17) after scoring a goal against the Montreal Impact during the first half at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports /

Of course, given Altidore’s unselfish approach to playing, his main concern is the overall success of Toronto FC. As long as the team wins, he doesn’t care if he gets recognition or not.

Altidore said: “Most importantly, the three points gave ourselves a little bit of distance between us and Philly. We’re trying to get to first place right now.”

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Regardless of how the US international perceives himself, the love for and belief his teammates have in him is clear. You see it in the way Giovinco tries to set him up at every available opportunity, and then celebrates any Altidore goal with a joy that makes you think he’s scored himself.

If TFC are to finish top of the Eastern Conference, they need the former Sunderland forward to stay fit. In that respect, it’s so far so good, since his return.

Altidore said: “I think cardio-wise, I’m okay. It’s just getting the legs in the humidity and keeping them turning.

“It’s a tough time to come back on the summer. It’s not easy on the legs, but I’m feeling good.”

Overall, Altidore will always have his critics, no matter what he does – it comes with the territory. Regardless, he will have a major influence on where Toronto FC finishes in the standings and how far they advance once the playoffs begin.

Next: TFC not in the clear yet on the injury front

What’s your take on Altidore? Do you think he has a significant impact on TFC or do you believe he’s overrated? Let us know in the comments section below.

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