Steve Weaver intends to be more than development coach at Wolves – he wants to continue the search for lower division talent by identifying untapped potential of the future.
After 20 years in various coaching roles at Wrexham, Weaver took up what is a new role at Compton designed to accelerate the progression from Academy to first team level.
He said: “Having worked for Wrexham for so long I know the lower leagues and the managers and coaches at that level, who might want to take our lads on loan.
“While I’m there watching players on loan, it’s also an added tool in terms of talent identification, because if I see anyone with potential I can report back on that as well.
“I’ve always been fairly youth-orientated in football. Working under Brian Flynn at Wrexham, I carried out a very similar role to the one here.
“Traditionally Wrexham is a club which has developed young players. During my time there we probably gave around 50 to 60 their debuts.
“I’ve been fortunate enough since I left I was approached by Jim Cassell to do some work at Manchester City’s academy, which is regarded as one of the best.
“I’ve also done scouting for Blackburn while Mark Hughes was there as well.”
While the rest of the backroom staff are on the pre-season tour of Scotland, Weaver has remained behind to put transfer-listed players Seyi Olofinjana, Stephen Elliott and Jay Bothroyd among others through their paces.
He is relishing the chance to link up with boss Mick McCarthy.
He said: “Next week is when we can really start planning ahead and I can sit down with Mick and see what his thoughts are.
“I’m looking forward to working with Mick. The managers I’ve worked for have always been honest, straight-talking and Mick is the same.
“Wolves are well known for their set-up and the way they have brought young players through. Even though I’ve only been here a few days, first impressions are very good.”
Weaver watched Wolves Academy under-18s thrash Doncaster 8-0 away in a friendly, as well as largely a reserve side who won 4-1 at non-League Chasetown on Friday.
Sam Winnall (3), Michael Wardle (2), Fabruce Kasiana (penalty), Aristote Duerin-Lokonga and Ashley Hemmings scored in south Yorkshire.
He added: “There already seems to be a very good group of under-18s who will be pushing into my group next year.
“It’s all about getting a long-term strategy in place, and it’s a task I’m really looking forward to.”
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