Wolves may unleash their youngest talent, 15-year-old right-back Wesley Okoduwa, against Arsenal in Saturday night's clash.
Okoduwa's potential debut comes amidst a dire injury crisis plaguing the Wolves' first team as they face the Gunners.
The youngster was dragged out of a science lesson to join the first team as they train for their Premier League clash.
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With nine key players sidelined or unfit, manager Gary O'Neil faces a tough decision but expresses optimism about Okoduwa's readiness for the big stage.
Wolves youngster trains with first-team
Despite acknowledging that Okoduwa's debut might be slightly premature in his development, O'Neil stresses the necessity dictated by the team's current predicament.
"I hope he’s had more fun with us than he would have in science!" O'Neil quips, highlighting the unconventional path Okoduwa took to the pitch, as reported by the Sun.
"He’s ready for the game. He’s trained very well, he’s physically very good. It’s probably slightly too early in his development but it’s the situation we’re in.”
The injury crisis has forced O'Neil to rely on the depth of his squad, with several young players poised for potential debuts.
"I’ve got ten senior outfield players that can start. We’re probably in the worst situation we’ve been in," O'Neil laments, highlighting the severity of the injury crisis.
However, he finds solace in the opportunity it presents for the club's budding talents. "But the positive is there are loads of young players involved against Arsenal. There might be a debut or two from the start for some of the younger lads."
His inclusion in the starting lineup against Arsenal underscores Wolves' faith in his abilities and highlights the club's commitment to nurturing young talent.
Should Okoduwa take the field, he will not only make history as Wolves' youngest player but also as the Premier League's second-youngest player overall.