Wolves hand pro contract to youngsters

Wolves today awarded three scholars with contracts – taking the total of the current crop to eight who have turned pro.

Left-back Jordan Cranston, striker Jake Kempton and midfielder Sam Whittall have been offered professional deals for one year plus 12-month options.

They join Anthony Forde, Zeli Ismail, Liam McAlinden, Kristian Kostrna and Aljaz Cotman who have already signed contracts.

It is believed to be the most successful take-up the club has had, backed up by the fact Wolves are riding high in second place in the FA Premier Academy League, winning seven in a row at one point this season. "We've done terrific again by getting so many through," said academy manager Kevin Thelwell.

"It will still be difficult for youngsters to make it into the senior ranks, although Anthony has already figured for the first team.

"But for us to have eight of good stock with the qualities to be professional players is a really good marker of the work going on.

"That's been reflected in the league position this year.

"We don't often talk about that but they are second in what's arguably the strongest academy league in the country and that's all credit to them as well as the excellent work done by Mick Halsall.

"Fingers crossed they can try to take it on to the next level now."

Three scholars have been released – Josh Shepherd, Jordan Keane and Oliver Bashford.

Thelwell said everything will be done to find the released players clubs.

"Your heart always goes out to the ones who don't quite make it," he added.

"I don't think Jordan Keane, Josh and Olly could have done any more."