Does Jozy Altidore have swine flu?
Posted by Creaven on August 18, 2009 under England, Premier League | 
7 Comments to Read
Update: David Smith at Yanks Abroad did some actual reporting on this. Smith reports Steve Cherundolo and Michael Bradley’s absence from the Bundesliga last weeked was at least partly due to concerns over exposure to swine flu. When it come to Altidore, a Hull City press officer said Altidore is not with the club because of bureaucracy concerning the work permit; the team denied the delay has anything to do with a possible infection. That’s contrary to what the Hull Daily Mail reported Tuesday (read below).
Something very weird is going on with Jozy Altidore.
On August 10, it was widely reported Altidore recieved his work permit and was ready to start his Premiership career.
Then, all of a sudden last Friday, we learned (thanks to Altidore twittering) that, no, the work permit actually wasn’t completed and Altidore was still in the United States. So does Altidore have a work permit or not? If he does, why are Hull and Altidore pretending that he doesn’t? If he doesn’t have a work permit, why isn’t he in England so he would be ready when his work permit goes through? WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON HERE?
It looks like we have an answer, maybe…
The Hull Daily Mail reported Tuesday that Altidore does in fact have a work permit, but is being held back in the U.S. because he has “found himself the subject of precautionary tests, delaying the international clearance needed to head to England.”
The story says Altidore “came in contact” with Landon Donovan, who was reported to have swine flu.
So can Altidore not fly internationally because he has swine flu?
What adds to the curiosity of the case is what Hull manager Phil Brown said to the Hull Daily Mail:
“Unfortunately, there’s been a scare in the American camp that’s caused a set-back.”
“They’ve had a concern over contamination and they do not want to put their players in jeopardy.
“Hopefully, it will finally be done first thing, but we’re working to a very tight schedule for tomorrow night.
“It’s out of our hands but I’d be 95 per cent certain for Bolton on Saturday.”
All of the U.S. players who play in Europe, and went to Mexico last week, have returned to their clubs — except Altidore. So, unlike what Brown said, U.S. soccer didn’t think it was putting “their players in jeopardy” by flying them across the Atlantic — except Altidore.
What I don’t understand is why Hull City and Altidore lied. If they’re really concerned about Altidore’s health, why didn’t they give that as the reason why he couldn’t play, instead of making up the story about his work permit? Also, if they lied about the work permit, could they be lying about this?
ifotbol.com said,
England is one of the trickest places for players to get a work permit. I’m sure this is the hold up rather than anything to do with swine flu. I’m sure there as just as many English players with the virus. Micah Richards for one had it and lost it this summer. Bit like he did with his place in the England the summer before.
Shawn Gillogly said,
Could be a bit of both. The swine flu may be an excuse to hold up the final delivery of the work permit. The other players are already members of their clubs. Jozy is a transfer until the permit clears.
By the numbers, there’s no legal reason they can hold up his work permit. He has enough appearances with the National Team in the last 12 months to qualify.
Bill said,
Online sources indicate that he now has a work permit and is heading over to Hull. Given how the Spurs dismantled Hull, he may have a chance to play this weekend.
Shawn Gillogly said,
Altidore was on the pitch to good effect today. He came on @ the 60 min mark and set up the only goal in Hull’s 1-0 win. He also had two quality chances of his own, one of which he probably should’ve opened his account on.
Eric B said,
Finally found some nice highlights of Josy’s first outing with Hull City:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GADsTA4DQlE
Hoping performances like this push him into the starting line up!
Bill said,
Jozy just scored his first Hull goal in the Carling Cup, with a 30 yard shot!
Shawn Gillogly said,
Phil Brown has gushed over him both games so far. So that’s encouraging, as far as it goes. Though Phil Brown’s managerial prowess (and occasionally even future) are matters of conjecture.
Regardless, an auspicious beginning in England for Altidore.
Add A Comment