Young Jozy Altidore Becomes First American to Score in La Liga

American teenage sensation Jozy Altidore became the first US player to score in the Spanish La Liga last weekend as he netted in the 90th minute of a Villareal win over Athletic Bilbao.  The historic goal came in the waning moments of a convincing Villareal win.   Within a minute of entering the match as a substitute replacing Joseba Lorente, Altidore ran onto a thru ball and slid the ball into the lower left of the net for the goal.

A rash of injuries at Villareal has allowed the young American striker a chance to get minutes, but indications are that once the squad is healthy Altidore could be loaned out to another club in an effort to get the youngster more minutes and valuable experience.  Altidore remains confident either way.

"I don't know, I definitely think it's a possibility. I think they're probably considering it," Altidore told The AP in a telephone interview.  If a move comes, Altidore hopes to play either in the English Premier League or a league that is similar to Spain's.  "But I am also happy to be here helping out. I know whatever they choose it's in the best interest for me," Altidore said.

"This year is definitely a learning experience, I'm not expected to step in immediately and score 20 goals. I'm here this year to learn how things go in La Liga and get experience and train with these guys to make me a better player," said Jozy Altidore.

American soccer fans hope Altidore continues to improve as he could be a major factor in the US National Team's success next year in the final round of World Cup qualifying.