Wolves under-18s are gearing up for their final three games of the U18 Premier League season, with all three fixtures taking place within the space of a week.
James McPike’s side make a return to league action following a three-week break since their last outing at Liverpool, with the old gold hosting Leeds United at Compton Park on Saturday afternoon before travelling to Manchester United and Middlesbrough. The final day trip to the Riverside Stadium will give the players an incentive to perform in the first two games, with McPike suggesting that those who perform best will be rewarded with a start at Boro.
Despite the lack of league action in recent weeks, a group of under-17s jetted out to Borgaro Torinese in Italy to compete in an oversees tournament during the Easter break. McPike has given his assessment of another successful few days away from home comforts, while also reflecting on his own experience of taking charge of the under-18s across the second half of the campaign.
On how the time has been filled since the last league fixture
“We went to Italy on a tournament with the under-17s. That was a good experience and we came third, beating teams like Atalanta and Juventus.
“It’s always good playing international opposition. You get to see different styles, different cultures and play on different types of surfaces.
“When we’re looking at competitive fixtures, tournament games are brilliant for the players.”
On learning more about the players
“You get to learn a bit more about them, their character and personality. There were some really good opportunities for them to show togetherness and spirit to qualify out of the group.
“These breaks happen at times. It’s good sometimes because we can put these trips on which develops them differently and it’s another thing to add to their experiences here.
“It helps prepare them for the level we want them to get to, so it enables them to get used to and manage that competitive environment.”
On younger players stepping up this season
“They’ve given everything. It’s good for them and they’ll feel the benefits for it next season – to play difficult games against older players and get a taste of 18s football.
“It’s been tough and challenging for them, but those games and that kind of experience is going to put them in good stead.”
On the final three games and finishing at the Riverside
“We’ve got Leeds on Saturday, Manchester United on Tuesday night and a good one for the last game of the season against Middlesbrough at the Riverside.
“There’s lots to still play for in terms of that and hopefully across the next two games, the boys can show what they’re about to play in the Middlesbrough game.
“It’s a nice little carrot for them and that’s how we framed it up to the players. The next two games will determine who starts so it gives them something to play for, especially when the season’s drawing to a close. It gives them something to stay motivated and focused for.”
On his experience leading the group
“It’s been great. The club decided in January to give it to me on an interim basis, to give me an experience and an opportunity.
“I’ve learnt loads from it, had lots of support around me and it’s been a good one for me to have a go at. I’ll have some time to reflect on it and keep working towards learning and developing.
“When you’re leading, it’s different from being an assistant coach. You’re managing the programme, the players, transition from age groups and, ultimately, the matchday.
“It has been challenging, but in a good way. Every challenge that we’ve had has been an opportunity to learn from. In under-18s football that’s what it’s designed to do – for the players to experience things, the staff to learn and develop.
“I think we’ve done that and the end of the season is always a good time to reflect and get the most out of the opportunity that was given to me.”
