SAM Wilde is ready for his debut, says Wolves boss Tony Smith.

The 19-year-old Wiganer is expected to start in the back row against his hometown club at The Halliwell Jones Stadium tomorrow, Thursday, kick off 8pm, on the back of Wolves having 10 absences through injury and suspension.

Under 19s coach Lee Briers has been pushing the England Academy international’s case to Smith, who said: “I’m delighted to hand Sam his first shirt in first grade and he’ll do a good job for us.

“He’s a tough kid, a good size. Without putting too many tags on him, he’s got some similarities to Bennie Westwood in that he’s a workaholic and he doesn’t mind the rough and tough stuff.

“He just gets on with the game. He’ll hit the ball up for you and then tackle everything that comes his way.”

Under 19s skipper Wilde, who started out at Shevington Sharks, has recently finished his college exams and not yet been on the full-time books, though he is contracted until the end of 2017.

Smith said: “We’ve enjoyed watching him develop over the past couple of years. He was going to be joining us full-time anyway after having just finished his exams.

“He’s in and about training with us regularly. He’s ready. Your debut is always special no matter who it’s against, but against Wigan it makes it extra special. He’s excited about it, he’s fitted in well and he’s well respected within the group.”

Although 18-year-old former Rylands Sharks centre Harvey Livett has also been named in the 19-man squad, he and Declan Patton are the ones expected to miss the cut.