Wolves keeper's growing pains

Wolves keeper Wayne Hennessey today revealed the secret of his success for club and country - he's stopped growing.

The giant 6ft 5ins shot stopper has established himself at first choice at both Molineux and for Wales with some outstanding performances.

But Hennessey has revealed he suffered growing pains as a teenager as he came through the Wolves Academy ranks after swapping rugby for football on the advice of his dad.

"I started off playing rugby," revealed Hennessey.

"My dad was good - he used to play for Cardiff and Glamorgan.

"He's 6ft 3ins and stocky. One day he saw me bringing this kid down with my feet instead of my body and he said, 'that's it - football's your game'.

"That's when I started in goal. I wasn't tall then. I started to shoot up when I went to high school. It was weird, like overnight.

"I kept growing and started to have pains in the back of my legs. Not severe pains, but I could feel them - growing pains.

"They've gone now and I would say I've stopped growing."

Now he's stopped growing, Hennessey is walking tall and growing in confidence.

After keeping a Football League record of nine successive clean sheets during a loan spell with Stockport last season, the Anglesey-born keeper has filled the boots of the injured Matt Murray at Molineux brilliantly.

Already highly rated in the Welsh circles, Hennessey has also leaped the age groups to become first choice in the senior international side.

And the young keeper admits is a far cry from when he used to help out with his dad's painting and decorating business.

"I used to help my dad when I was younger - I thought it wicked to pick up a brush and paint walls but I wasn't too keen on wallpapering," added Hennessey.

"Now the best way for me to chill out is to be with my dad and play pool.

"To be honest, I can't believe the last few months. As a Welshman, I really wanted to play for my country and I can't explain the feeling when I've pulled on the shirt.

"I've framed it. I've also swapped with Petr Cech and Jens Lehmann and if I get to play against the Republic, then I hope to get Shay Given's shirt.

"I'm still only 20 and, hopefully, I can be one of those stars one day.

"I love it when the fans call my name - Wolves No1 or Wales No1. You feel good.

"I want to play in the Premier League one day and hope it will be with Wolves."