Chris Iwelumo quits his job with Wolves

Iwelumo told of how it was with a 'heavy heart' that he decided he was 'unable to meet the demands' of the role.

The Scot was a popular choice to replace Rob Edwards in the position, after Edwards moved up to a first-team coaching job at Molineux.

Iwelumo was the stand-out candidate after a rigorous recruitment process, overseen by Kenny Jackett, Kevin Thelwell, Jez Moxey and academy boss Gareth Prosser.

But, just a few days after being unveiled, Iwelumo has changed his mind, citing family reasons and a long commute as reasons for the u-turn.

The 36-year-old said: "It is with a heavy heart that, having taken on the role and started work, I have quickly realised that I do not think I am up to the demands of the position, at this stage of my career.

"As I mentioned last week when taking on the role, I was delighted to have been successful and was really looking forward to it.

"But once I started working with the lads and planning the way forward, I have decided that I am not ready to take on such an important position.

"I have two girls who are under 10 and a new baby and, with the long hours and travel associated with the role, I underestimated the amount of time I would need to spend away from home.

"As soon as I felt that this was the case, it was only right to be open and honest and to give Wolves the best opportunity of appointing another candidate.

"While I am very reluctant to leave so early in the role, I'd rather be upfront about it now just a few days in than build a good rapport with the boys and let them down further down the line.

"I am sure the academy will continue to grow from strength to strength, and wish everyone concerned all the very best for the future."

Iwelumo played for Wolves between 2008 and 2010 and since retiring last year had worked towards his coaching qualifications.

He made 52 appearances for Wolves in a two-year spell and said one his few career regrets was leaving Molineux.

The Scottish international striker featured for a host of clubs in a 500-game playing career, including Stoke City, Charlton Athletic, Burnley and Watford.

Prosser expressed his disappointment at Iwelumo's sudden change of heart.

He said: "We genuinely believe he was of the necessary calibre as a coach and a person to work successfully with our under-18 group.

"We hoped he would help them continue their development and progression towards senior football.

"However, it is testament to Chris' honesty and character that he has been open with us and communicated so quickly that he no longer wishes to take on the position.

"Having carried out a rigorous recruitment process, Chris was one of several outstanding candidates who we would have been comfortable in selecting for role.

"We are now hoping to confirm a new appointment as quickly as possible, to allow the new head coach the chance to settle in and get to know the staff and scholars, before the season gets underway."