There have also been plenty of encouraging developments elsewhere within the Academy.
The Under-17s – a side largely made up of Under-16s and first-year scholars – recently recorded an impressive 3-2 victory over Brighton, while a number of Under-16s have stepped up to U18 level in recent weeks.
Nat Kalembo, Arthur O’Keefe, Nas Campbell, Dominic Wright, Ja’Shaun Christmas and Fortune have all featured for Alonso’s side.
“I think the Under-16s are very good. The Under-17s are very good. We won that game.
“It's very good for the players. Some players played that game and it's very good for them.”
There was also individual recognition for Toby Williams, whose stunning halfway-line strike against West Ham was named the club's August Goal of the Month.
Williams received the ball inside his own half before spotting the goalkeeper off his line and producing an audacious finish.
“Yes, that goal was unbelievable. He came on and he made the touch. He looked the keeper a little bit higher and the finish was unbelievable.
“He deserved it. I'm very happy for him.”
