Sunderland boss Gus Poyet has assured Jozy Altidore he has the manager's full backing.
Even though he missed a gilt-edged chance in the 3-0 win over Newcastle United, the American's swashbuckling display in attack has won over his manager.
"He was magnificent and I was so sad he didn't score," said Poyet.
"They practically gave it to him but I said to him in the dressing room 'I liked that. Now you know how important you are and you can feel it.'
"If we keep on winning, his goal will come.
"But that performance was one of the biggest and most important points for us."
