Rawlings signs first professional contract

The 17-year-old joined the Old Gold at the age of 13 and has developed steadily through the academy system, performing consistently for the under-18s this term.

Despite being born in Tokyo, Rawlings has represented England at under-17 level, earning five caps, and made his Wolves under-21 debut last March at just 15 years old.

Last summer the youngster travelled with the first-team for their pre-season training camp in Marbella and summer tour of the United States, featuring in friendly matches during both trips.

Since then, his performances and progression have continued as part of both the under-18 and under-21 groups this term, leading to the reward of a first professional contract.

Jon Hunter-Barrett, academy manager for football, said: “We’re delighted that we’ve been able to reward Luke for his hard work and commitment to the club so far with his first contract offer.

“Luke has not surprised us with what he's shown so far. We’re always basing what we do and our decisions on his potential and what we expect of him. But now, with the standards he’s set, he’s shown us that he’s growing with his game.”

Rawlings was enrolled as a first year scholar last summer, but his attitude, particularly while with the Old Gold first-team, have seen him progress as an impressive rate, according to Hunter-Barrett.

“Experience is phenomenal for young players to get an understanding of what the standards are like in our first-team. Obviously, playing in the hardest league in the world, a big part of the preparation is experience for all young players.

“Luke is a humble boy; he took it all in his stride and tried to embrace the experience as opposed to letting it all pass him by. He was making sure he was taking part in every little bit of the activities and taking advantage of the opportunity presented to him.”

Now, Rawlings and Wolves’ under-21 group will turn their focus to the PL2 play-offs against Chelsea on Saturday evening.

By Rony Omar