3 min read
3rd May 2024
Richard Walker has suggested that the individual development of his players has contributed to the wider success of the team this season.
Wolves under-18s secured a fifth win from their last six games at Leeds United on Wednesday afternoon, a result which ensured at least a top four finish in the U18 Premier League. The Old Gold currently sit third with one game of the campaign left to play, and head coach Walker has praised his players for grinding out back-to-back away victories.
On a hard-fought win
“I’m delighted they got over the line. It was a hard-fought victory and I thought Leeds were very good, they asked real questions of us.
“The result was better than the performance for sure. We’re in development phase so the performance can better, but they’re in credit in terms of that.
“Part of their development is coming away from home after a long season and grinding out a win. That resilience, drive and commitment was strong.
“They’ve played against a really strong side and taken six points off them so they can be pleased with that.”
On individual development
“For me, I’m always looking at the individual development because that’s what we’re here for.
“If collectively more individuals develop, the team will strive, succeed and progress. I think that’s the case.
“Individuals have made good progress over the course of the season and the progress evident there today was the work ethic they showed, the commitment and desire when things weren’t going all their own way.”
On wanting to finish third
“I’m really pleased they’ve finished in the top four and hopefully we can finish in the top three with a good performance and result against Derby on Saturday.
“It’s not the crucial factor. I want the lads to want to win and want to succeed and want to finish high.
“Again, it’s about individual development and doing everything we can to get players in our first-team.
“The players can be really proud of their efforts so far this season. We’ve got one more game to go in the league and hopefully they finish well because I think they’ve been terrific.
“They’ve bought into everything we’re trying to do and, for that, I hope they do finish well on Saturday and cement a third place finish.”
