There are a number of very talented young players on the books at Wolves at the moment – and James Collins dropped an exciting verdict about Tom Edozie on Monday.
The U21s were in action at Aggborough against Newcastle United, looking to do what the first-team could not on Saturday.
Collins’ side have been in decent form of late, and currently sit seventh in the PL2 table after 15 games played.
They played out a 2-2 draw on Monday night with the Magpies, and there was a brace from Tom Edozie on what was his first start in PL2…
Tom Edozie shines for Wolves U21s as James Collins praises Molineux talent
Newcastle took the lead in the game when Trevan Sanusi went around Aaron Keto-Diyawa and put in a cross. It ended up going in with Temple Ojinnaka unable to stop it rolling over the line.
Wolves would find an equaliser just before half-time though when Leon Chiwome flicked the ball on to Ty Barnett. Barnett’s effort was saved, but Edozie was there to follow in, as all good forwards do, for his first of the evening.
In the second-half, Edozie then put Wolves in front.
Ojinnaka’s header from a corner hit the bar, and Wolves then recycled before Edozie drilled in a nice low strike from the centre of the box.
Sadly Wolves couldn’t build on their lead, and Newcastle found an equaliser of their own in the 90th minute.
Anthony Munda was there to provide a clinical finish right into the top corner after latching onto a flick.
So a point for Wolves, but more promising signs for U21s manager James Collins, who was full of praise for Edozie after the game. He said (via Wolves official): “Tom’s done really well when he’s played for the 18s which means he’s earned the right to train with us.
“When he’s trained with us, he’s looked a real spark. He’s got so much ability, lovely balance, lovely feel and touch.
“There’s lots he needs to add to his game. He can be a little bit laid back at times and he needs to sharpen that up, which he is doing.
“I thought he worked really hard tonight and he’s got some good quality. It was a really pleasing first start for him to get the impact.
“You get judged by goals and assists if you’re playing in those positions and he’s started really nicely which is good for him.”
Good showing from Edozie
So it looks as though Wolves could have another great young talent on the books in Edozie.
Collins’ comments are certainly encouraging. Clearly, the teenager – who is the younger brother of Samuel Edozie of Southampton – has made a good early impression on the manager.
He’s been between the U18s and U21s this season and it ought to be his goal now to try and feature in Collins’ side as much as he can, so that eventually he’s purely with the U21s.
Ultimately, playing in higher age groups is something all young players should be striving for, as it can help to prepare them for eventual first-team football.