Jake Cassidy makes Wolves bow

Jake Cassidy's big day ended on a subdued note as he made an early departure from a Wolves Development squad clash yesterday.

Hours after Wolves confirmed the signing of the highly-coveted 17-year-old Welsh talent, Cassidy lined up in the team which saw a 1-0 half-time lead over-turned 2-1 by Sunderland.

But the youngster, having complained of feeling unwell before the game but opting to play, was eventually withdrawn shortly before half time.

"Jake didn't feel 100 per cent but wanted to try and play," explained Development coach Steve Weaver.

"But it didn't really work out for him and he had to come off."

Ethan Ebanks-Landell's powerful first half header had given Wolves the lead but was eventually cancelled out by a David Healy penalty and winner from Ryan Noble.

Healy and midfielder Teemu Tainio were the senior influences in a Sunderland team against a Wolves side who had Matt Hill marshalling the defence.

The Development squad have produced some impressive performances and results this season but this was a step up in quality of opposition which Weaver believes was needed ahead of the start of the Premier Reserve League campaign at Everton on August 31.

"It was a really good test for us and just what we needed," said the coach.

"The lads have done well in pre-season and got some good results but this was probably more like the sort of fixtures will get in the Reserve League against Premier League teams who are similar to us.

"But while it's always disappointing to lose having been in front - particularly as we could have gone or two or three goals ahead in the first half - it was a good test which should continue to help with our preparation for the season."