Rob Edwards may have another gem coming through at Wolves after Mateus Mane

The Rob Edwards appointment could be a big win for young players at Molineux – and Wolves appear to have a rising talent in their academy.

Dave Edwards has insisted Rob Edwards won’t be afraid to turn to youth at Wolves, which is something we haven’t seen too much from previous managers.

At the moment, Mateus Mane is seen as the top prospect at Wolves.

But even he has struggled for minutes, despite Vitor Pereira calling Mane ‘special’ last season. Although his situation could now change following the arrival of Edwards.

But after Mane, there is another young attacking player who really seems to be shining in the academy who Rob Edwards may look to keep an eye out for.

Fletcher Holman shining for Wolves U21s

Wolves haven’t had many success stories in recent years when it’s come to the academy.

A few years ago, it looked liked Luke Cundle and Joe Hodge could perhaps go on and become regular first-team players. But neither were able to make it, and both are no longer at the club.

Hugo Bueno is the only player who has emerged from the academy to become a regular, and fans would love nothing more than to see more youngsters coming through.

Mane seems well poised to make an impact. But it may be worth keeping an eye out for Fletcher Holman, who has made a fine start to the 2025/26 season with the U21s.

Holman bagged a brace last night in Wolves’ 3-2 Birmingham Senior Cup defeat to Lye Town, taking his tally to eight for the season across all competitions.

Holman’s hunger was clear from the get-go, as he came close inside two minutes before being flagged offside.

Lye took a two-goal lead going into half-time, but Holman pulled one back with a tidy finish after being found by Leo Lopes on 50 minutes.

Holman then equalised, winning a penalty before picking himself up to convert it himself.

Holman must take heart from Mateus Mane rise

Holman appears to be developing nicely since his move to the club from Eastbourne Borough in January 2024.

The 21-year-old simply has to keep working hard and scoring goals, and it may well be that he does eventually get a first-team chance.

Mane, 18, has been in and around the first-team for a while now, and this will be heartening for Holman, who must see that there’s a pathway if you’re good enough.

And now, Wolves have a manager who is thought to be willing to turn to youth.

Holman also has experience of men’s football having played for Eastbourne’s first-team and having also had a loan spell at Solihull Moors – for whom he scored three goals in 21 games – last season.

This will have surely helped his development, and certainly, it’s a case of watch this space with Holman.