Anthony Forde in Wolves boss' plans

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy today revealed youngster Anthony Forde is in his first-team plans and believes the club could have unearthed a real gem.

The 17-year-old academy Player of the Year, who has just returned from helping Ireland to the European under-19 Championships semi-finals, made a confident senior debut in Saturday's 2-0 win over Real Zaragoza.

Forde, who can play on either wing or in central midfield, played the final 18 minutes after coming on for Matt Jarvis.

And the Wolves boss believes the classy midfielder has the potential to be a Premier League player.

McCarthy said: "It was lovely to see 'Fordey' go on - we have all got a real liking for him. He's a very good player and he will be around the squad.

"He can play wide left, wide right or centre midfield and I've got a really good feeling for him. We have the kids in to train with us from time to time and he's always stood out.

"He'd have been with the squad before now but went away with the Ireland Under-19s and played in all the games.

"He's a really comfortable with the ball and when he went on he wasn't fazed by it.

"I was delighted with him."