Alfie Pond described making his Premier League debut in Wolves’ first away win of the season against Fulham as a moment he would never forget.
The 20-year-old centre-back, who has spent the last two years with the under-21s after joining from Exeter City, replaced Nelson Semedo in added time of Saturday’s victory at Craven Cottage to make his second appearance for Gary O’Neil’s side following his debut at Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup.
Pond has been training with the first-team following injury to Yerson Mosquera and with fellow centre-backs Santi Bueno and Craig Dawson absent for the visit to west London, he earned his Premier League chance, something he admits he’ll cherish for the rest of his life.
On making his Premier League debut
“It was a really good moment for me. It all happened so quick. I think after the fourth goal went in, the gaffer turned around and said, ‘Get yourself ready’, and I was buzzing when he said that.
“I couldn't wait to get on even though it was for only a couple minutes. But I was really happy.”
Alfie Pond's @premierleague debut on Saturday 👏
— Wolves Academy (@WolvesAcademy) November 25, 2024
Congratulations, Alfie! pic.twitter.com/LaANHYUUuN
On a moment to remember
“It all felt a bit surreal. It happened so quick after the fourth goal, just within a couple minutes, and then it was over.
“I did manage to get a few touches on the ball, think I got two touches in the end, but I'm obviously really happy to get on the pitch.
“It’s something I'll cherish for the rest of my life. It was such a big moment and I'm really happy.”
On taking his opportunity
“After the Brighton game, I knew that there might be little injuries which might crop up with there being only four [senior defenders] in that position.
“I knew that I had to keep myself ready and hope that the opportunity would come – and it did. Even when I get just a few minutes on the pitch, I've just got to take each opportunity as it comes in and do as best I possibly can.
“It’s all about building every day, keep working hard and see where it takes me.”
On stepping up from the under-21s
“In training, I've just been trying to work as hard as I can and just stay ready, really. That’s the main thing, to stay ready in your head. When it comes to it, it's something you can just take in your stride and go with.
“It's just building blocks every day. Even in training and being around the squad, I’ve just been trying to settle in as much as I can.
“I was with the 21s from the start of season, and now, just coming into the first team for the last month or so since the Brighton game, so it’s just trying to build every day and just settle in as much as I can.”
On learning from his senior teammates
“There's been a couple [who have helped], especially the ones in my position. I ask questions to them when I'm not sure on stuff and how they can help me, because obviously they’ve got all the experience. But I just look at them for guidance.”
