Colombia international reveals leaving Fulham was ‘important decision’ – ‘Really wasn’t’ a step backwards

Already loaned to Standard Liège last season, Steven Alzate was sent back to the Jupiler Pro League side from Brighton this summer.

What many people don’t know about the London born Colombia international, however, is that he spent a chunk of his youth at Fulham before going to Leyton Orient.

The midfielder sat down with DH to discuss his career to date, including his spell with the Craven Cottage side.

The 25-year-old, already capped seven times for Colombia, was asked about his time at Fulham, which happened when he was very young.

Describing his time at Craven Cottage as a ‘great learning curve’, Alzate also pointed out that his technical side came naturally to him, with the physical and tactical aspects of football coming at a later date.

Then, a big decision needed to be made.

He said: “Leaving Fulham for Leyton Orient was an important decision in my life. At first glance, it seems like a step backwards, but it really wasn’t. With my father, we told ourselves it was the best thing to do. I needed to get out of my comfort zone at Fulham to grow. Leyton Orient was also closer to home. I spent great years there.”

Joining Leyton Orient in 2016 after leaving Fulham, the player made his way to the first-team, where he played 12 games, scored one goal and assisted another two before Brighton came swooping in.

He has also enjoyed a spell on loan at Swindon Town, before heading to Belgium for them first time last season.