Iwelumo and Harte in at Molineux

Manager Mick McCarthy has revealed he signed Chris Iwelumo at the second time of asking for Wolves – as Ian Harte checked in on trial.

Big striker Iwelumo signed a two-year deal for Wolves, just 12 months after the Molineux boss was pipped for his signature by Charlton.

Former Republic of Ireland left-back Harte, 30, has been released by Sunderland after three years with Levante and has joined his new team-mates for a two-week trial.

McCarthy was delighted to have signed Iwelumo and believes he can do a real job at Molineux.

He said: "I've known him for quite a while. We actually tried to sign him from Colchester when he was there but I think the deal had already been done, because Phil Parkinson had left Colchester to go to Charlton.

"I'm delighted to sign Chris. He adds a physical presence and experience as he's coming up to 30.

"He's played lots of games and scored goals, certainly in the last three years during which time he's scored 44 goals."

Iwelumo becomes the second oldest player to sign for McCarthy at Wolves, after departed skipper Gary Breen.

He said: "His experience will help. Just from talking to him I know he is a good fellow, which is important because there are a lot of young players about the place.

"While it's great to have athletism, fitness, youth and desire, it's also nice to have experience. I am sure he'll help the younger lads."

The mutual respect between manager and new player is clear to see, with Iwelumo highlighting the 'McCarthy factor' after becoming Wolves' fourth summer signing.

The former Stoke striker spoke with ex-team-mates Karl Henry (Stoke) and George Elokobi (Colchester) before making the move and the verdict was the same - they all praised McCarthy.

He said: "I'm really close with Karl and George and they all speak really highly of the gaffer. I was room-mates with Karl for three-and-a-half years so I'm still in touch with him.

"I had a chat with Andy Reid as well, who said he was fantastic and that speaks volumes."