The defender signed a five-year deal when he arrived at Compton Park having been on the club’s radar for a while and has established himself in James Collins’ under-21s side. Pond was highly thought of at Exeter and had already chalked-up several first-team appearances at St James Park, while featuring out on loan for Tiverton Town and Yeovil Town. Now, nearly four months into his Wolves career, the 18-year-old believes he is beginning to find his feet after making his mark on the under-21s and being given opportunities to train with the first-team.
On settling in to life at Wolves
“It was difficult to start with because it was about adapting to a different style of play and one I wasn’t used to.
“However, now I’m settled, I’ve had a few games and have been with the first-team a bit, so I’m slowly finding my rhythm and playing better.”
On building relationships with teammates
“They’ve been really good. I live in an apartment where there’s quite a few of us so I can ask them about day-to-day stuff and chat with them.
“It’s the first time I’ve been away from my home in my life. I’m still 18 so it’s been tough adapting, but I’m ready to push on now that I’m settled better.”
Alfie Pond heading home from close range 🙌 pic.twitter.com/GmZ7Vhpb65
— Wolves Academy (@WolvesAcademy) October 15, 2022
On facing a variety of opponents in under-21s football
“That’s why I came here. I’ve had my stints on loan and I’ve learnt the ugly side of the game where you’ve got to battle – now it’s about nailing down on the more technical side of the game and playing against quicker, more direct players.
“I think we’ve matched our opponents and picked up some good results so far, so we’re doing alright.
“It’s a different style so I’m picking it up and trying new things. I’m trying to step up to what the coaches are asking me to do.”
On training with the first-team
“It’s been really good. We went to Marbella the other week with the new gaffer, which was a good experience.
“It’s just about stepping up, trying to take your opportunity when it’s there and hoping to impress. It helped with the other lads stepping up, but having a stint in men’s football previously also helped me.
“Obviously it’s a lot higher quality and better football, but I think I’ve adapted reasonably well to it.
“Players who play in my position like Max Kilman and Nathan Collins has been good. I’ve been able to watch what they do and learn off them.”
On the festive period
“The lads have got a few days off and I’m on standby for the first-team in case they need me.
“I’ve just got to stay ready in case that opportunity comes.”
On his aims for the New Year
“I want to play as much football as I can, keep learning the way that Wolves want to play and keep consistent.
“When you maintain consistency with your performances, you’ve always got a platform to push on.”
