Wolves pup delighted to join the big time
Leon Chiwome insists his Premier League debut is a moment he will never forget, despite Wolves’ West Midlands derby defeat at Villa.
Having only made his senior debut in the FA Cup game against Coventry before the international break, the 18-year-old was thrown into the starting XI on Saturday for his first start and first Premier League appearance.
Although it ended in a 2-0 defeat, the young striker was beaming after being handed the opportunity.
He said: “We came here trying to get the three points to take us to seventh, so it’s a disappointing result. But it’s a memory I’ll relive for the rest of my life and I’m very grateful to the gaffer for giving me the opportunity.
“The gaffer likes to use young players which is very good for the under-21s and the academy. It’s great to ge involved.
“But I’ve only been fully involved for the last three or four weeks so it’s been a quick turnover.
“I found out on Friday morning. That’s when the gaffer gets us in the analysis room and announced the squad.
“I saw my name up there and just thought ‘wow’.
“You’ve always got to be ready and have it in the back of your mind that you never know when it’s going to be your time.
“I’m grateful to the gaffer for letting me step up and have the opportunity.”
When asked if he expected to be starting so soon after getting into the first team squad, Chiwome added: “Definitely not. But we’ve had a couple of injuries and it’s a golden opportunity for me, so I’ve just got to come in and be grateful and take it.
“Obviously I’m devastated for the lads who have the injuries and I never wish that on anyone, but you just have to take it as your chance and make sure you’re ready to take it.”
It was a difficult fixture for the teenager, as he stepped into a fiery Villa Park and was largely isolated up front.
Chiwome – who was watched on by his family who travelled up from Brighton – will now remain with the first team as Wolves look to get their injured stars fit again.
When asked about the big step from the academy, Chiwome said: “It’s just taking on so much information because you’ve got to stick to the gameplan that the gaffer wants you to play.
“You can’t just play what you think is best. You’ve got to stick to the structure and keep the gaffer happy.
“It was really hard work. It was definitely harder than any youth level. But it was good experience and I didn’t feel too out of place.”
Chiwome was also helped by experienced players offering advice before and during the game.
He added: “Matheus Cunha is very good with me. He’s reached out to me on social media and he’s always giving me advice on training.
“But so are Mario Lemina and Pablo Sarabia. All of them are really good characters.
“They’re really easy to socialise with and they all take you under their wing, especially after I made my debut I feel like part of the family.”