Jack Price tipped to sign new deal at Wolves

The 20-year-old midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season and negotiations have yet to begin on a new deal.

But that process isn't far away after the pint-sized academy graduate emerged as a huge prospect in his debut campaign.

Price has surprised many with his crisp passing and astute awareness so uncanny for someone who has played just 16 first-team games, including 12 in the league.

The Shrewsbury-born midfielder, who hadn't played at senior level before this season, has featured on the losing side just once.

And, while Jackett wants the starlet tied down to a new deal, he believes head of football development Kevin Thelwell deserves huge credit for keeping the youngster at Molineux when others doubted him over his size.

"It's not one we've necessarily talked about but Wolves have a very good player on their hands," said the head coach.

"Speaking to people who've been here some time such as Kevin Thelwell, they've kept Price in the system here as he's a late developer.

"That looks a very good decision now and some good management by Kevin and by Wolves.

"By giving him that extra year and then judging him at 20 looks a very good decision now because he's come through this season and shown a maturity beyond his years and his experience.

"He's formed a very good partnership with Kevin McDonald."

As well as his ability to pass the ball forward, Jackett is also delighted with how Price makes himself a difficult opponent to beat.

"He reads the game well – he's very good defensively and he senses danger," said the Molineux head coach.

"He's not easy to get the other side of and he makes very few mistakes for a young player.

"He's very consistent. It was a good policy to give him that extra time through the last few seasons to make sure he gets as strong as possible."