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Who is Luke Rawlings? The 16-year-old who has gone on Wolves’ US pre-season tour

Everything you need to know about upcoming Wolves youngster Luke Rawlings who has joined the first team on the US tour.

Wolves have now set off on their pre-season tour as they look to prepare for the upcoming 2024/25 Premier League campaign. 

The club have travelled to the USA where they are set to take on West Ham, Crystal Palace and Red Bull Leipzig.

While many of the Wolves first team have travelled, one eye-catching name that has joined the squad is Rawlings.

In this article, Molineux News will give you the rundown of everything you need to know about the academy player ahead of the upcoming friendlies. 

What is Luke Rawlings’ nationality?

Rawlings was born in Tokoyo, Japan. However, he has represented England at youth level.

What positions does Luke Rawlings play?

For Wolves, Luke Rawlings mainly plays as a midfielder. On the pitch, his roles are flexible as he can play as either a six, eight or 10.

When did Luke Rawlings join Wolves?

Rawlings joined Wolves’ academy when he was 13 years old. He has now progressed into the Under 18s squad after excelling in the Under 16s.

Did he earn a scholarship from Wolves’ academy?

In July it was announced that Rawlings was one of 14 academy players to be given a full-time scholarship at the club. As a result, the midfielder signed a two-year deal.

How good is Luke Rawlings?

Rawlings has received high praise at Wolves for his ability at such a young age. In December, Under 18s coach Richard Walker highlighted how much potential the midfielder has. 

He said: ​​“If you take Luke Rawlings for example, he encounters a pre-season trip to Bratislava where he trained with the 18s in addition to some training time with the 16s.

“In the early parts of the season, he then went to South Korea in a competition with an under-18s group. He has international recognition and goes away to represent his country and again, he then plays in under-18s football, under-17s football – he’s had a real mixed diet of opportunities in which he can flourish this season and be challenged.

“We’re delighted that he’s been recognised by England for his abilities and his potential, and we’re delighted for him and his family with his call-up and then earning his first cap for England. That, I’m sure, was a massive moment of pride for everyone involved.

“In terms of the under-17 Premier League Cup, he’s kind of made it his own tournament. He’s scored in every game and all three goals have been outstanding goals, real high-level individual ability that he’s displayed. He’s someone who can be really pleased with his contributions for sure.”

Why has Luke Rawlings gone on pre-season tour with Wolves?

Rawlings was called up to be part of the squad for Wolves’ pre-season tour in the USA. Despite few youth players travelling, the midfielder made the cut. Journalist Liam Keen highlighted that Wolves’ lack of midfields at present was the reason for the call-up.

The club are currently a few players down in this position as Boubacar Traore is competing in the Olympics while Joao Gomes has been given an extra holiday after the Copa America.