It?s been a difficult time for the academy but the recent performance levels of the U18s team have been refreshing. And over the last few days, they have enjoyed a brief spell of success – beating both Tottenham (2-0) and West Brom (3-0).

Not only did they show their quality in winning those two games but they also managed two clean sheets, which will have given the defence a massive confidence boost. 

Two defenders, in particular, who have massively impressed in those two games are the central pairing of Gabriel Keita and Alfie Doy. With Alfie having suffered injuries throughout the campaign, these two haven?t had the opportunity to play together much, which further highlights the impressive nature of their recent performances. 
Last weekend’s West Brom game was Doy?s best performance of the season, with the defender finding some good form as the season reaches its climax. Following a series of injuries, he will be delighted to finally showcase his qualities, especially as he is yet to be offered a professional contract. 

Doy?s excellent leadership qualities were apparent throughout the game last Saturday, and his good communication translated through to his performance where he won a high proportion of aerial duels. He also displayed efficiency in possession by finding his intended targets effectively and helping his team to play through the press, while also executing long diagonals to the wide men.

Doy?s central defensive partner, Keita, a...