The Academy season kicks-off on Saturday 19^th August and the Molineux youngsters couldn't have asked for a more testing start to the new campaign.

  The fixtures, which have just been released, reveal that Southampton will be providing the opposition at Compton Park on the opening day, and coach John Perkins is under no illusions as to the task in hand.

  "Southampton were Champions of the Premier Academy Under 18s League last season after beating Aston Villa 1-0 in the final play-off game," he said.

  "It will be very tough. But the new lads that have joined our squad have been working hard and have settled in well.

  "They have shown a good attitude and are preparing for our first friendly game which is at Blackpool next Wednesday.

  "We will be operating with a smaller squad this season but that will mean the younger lads and schoolboys will get more opportunities."

  To view the new Academy fixtures, click here.