Wolves can take the pressure, insists Kenny Jackett

Wolves kick off the season at Preston this afternoon with all eyes on how Jackett's rebuilt young side will cope.

Online bookies bet365.com this week made Wolves 7-2 favourites for an immediate return to the Championship, ahead of second-ranked Peterborough at 7-1.

But Jackett believes his new-look side can fulfil expectations after two seasons of Molineux misery.

"We knew that was coming with a club the size of Wolves in League One after two relegations," said Jackett.

"I'm under no illusions as to the size of the task but I'm really not surprised by the fact we're made favourites by the bookies.

"I'm sure we were all expecting that with the way things have gone but I'm quietly confident in the performances that the group have put in during pre-season and of their capabilities.

"The way pre-season has gone, I'm looking forward to the season and I think the group can handle it.

"It's not something we're going to focus on or worry about.

"We know how high the motivation levels of the opposition are going to be, we're ready for it.

"We have to be aware of it but not be frightened of it. We actually have to embrace working at a big club."

And Jackett believes this is very much the beginning for the youngsters as they bed down.

"There's a lot more to come out of a lot of the players.

"With the right coaching, direction and opportunities in the first team, a lot of these players can develop well," he said.

Jackett insists he has settled in well since his arrival from Millwall and is looking to repay the fans for their great support, with 5,000 supporters heading to the opener Deepdale.

"I have found it great here," he said.

"I've had a considerable amount of well-wishing from supporters around Wolverhampton."