David Healy certainly appeared to give his chances of a place in Fulham’s starting line-up on Saturday a boost thanks to an influential performance in last weekend’s match against Sunderland at Craven Cottage.
Whilst Healy’s display impressed Roy Hodgson, the Manager also paid tribute to the Northern Ireland striker’s attitude behind the scenes.
“I’ve been very impressed by his professionalism,” said Hodgson. “His shares have risen enormously in value with that wonder goal and the fact the he almost scored a second with a header late on in the game.”
The Manager’s sentiments were also echoed by Fulham midfielder, Simon Davies, who said:
"He deserves his chance. He's been left out of the squad at times, but he's always trained really hard and has always done his best. Coming on last Saturday, he really showed a lot of character and that’s what he's about. He is desperate to play well and score goals.
"He's a great guy; you can see that when he's had disappointments - he doesn't let them affect him.
“He came on last Saturday. The ball was on his left foot, he's 25 yards out and he tries to bend it in the top corner. Not many people would try that if they hadn't been playing regularly. But he did it and scored, that's what he is - a natural goalscorer. He sees a chance and takes it, it's the hardest thing to do in the game and he's one of the best."
