Altidore, Spector rising; a promising weekend for Yanks abroad

Good news from two young Americans who have six months to cement their places as a go-to for Bob Bradley before the long flight over to South Africa next summer.

Hull City’s Jozy Altidore, coming off last week’s strong performance, got the start and went 72 minutes in a near-biggie against Manchester City, which finished as a 1-1 draw. Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink went the final 18 for young Altidore, whose performance drew rating from 5-7, depending on which British pub you like.

Jonathan Spector started for West Ham in a 5-3 romp over Burnley, with the American defender charging forward into the opposition penalty area to create a penalty kick. He generally drew good ratings, like the 7 from Sky Sports (fans on the same site rated him a 6.3, still pretty salty). Spector had manned a central position in last week’s 3-3 draw for the Hammer but replaced Julien Faubert at right back against Burnley.

Brad Friedel was large and in charge, making the difference with big saves as Aston Villa held off Tottenham, splitting the points in a 1-1 draw. Friedel received the game’s third highest rating (7.9) from Sky Sports.

Finally, Clint Dempsey finished a strong week at Craven Cottage, receiving one of Fulham’s highest ratings in a 1-1 draw with Bolton. The Guardian’s rating had him at a 7, topped only by goal-scorer Damien Duff’s 8. The draw at home came three days after Dempsey’s double helped the Cottagers earn a 3-0 result over Blackburn. Fulham remains in 10^th place – which isn’t bad for little West London club.