WATCH: Wolves Under-8s take on first-team squad in training as manager Gary O'Neil gives youngsters day they'll never forget

Wolves shared heartwarming footage of their under-8s team participating in a special training session against the first team at the start of the week. It showed the young players engaging in a mini-game with their senior colleagues, with O'Neil conducting the training match.

Head coach O'Neil explained the unique session to the youngsters, stating: "I have got a game for you against the big kids. We are on this pitch here, playing against the first team." The Wolves boss also outlined specific rules for the game, including restricting first-team players to one touch and prohibiting them from running.

First-team players such as Max Kilman, Jose Sa, Matheus Cunha, Pablo Sarabia, and Pedro Neto actively participated in the session, with O'Neil himself also seen engaging with the young players.

The footage captured the enthusiastic under-8s chasing the ball, showcasing their skills against the outnumbered first-team players. The session culminated in the young players celebrating a goal from close range, creating a memorable and joyous experience for both the under-8s and the first team.

Wolves pre-academy and development centre recruitment officer Calvin Smith said: "One thing we look to do each year is getting the under-8s to interact with the first-team, however, that looks. From a recruitment point of view, it gives these boys the best experiences and that's what pre-academy is about.

"We try and instil that 'one pack' mentality and these boys are at the start of their journey so if they can play and interact with their idols, it makes it more realistic and reachable. The fact that the first-team building is only 100 yards away from where the seven and eight-year-olds train is fantastic."

The event follows Wolves' successful run in the Premier League, as they concluded 2023 with three consecutive wins over Chelsea, Everton and Brentford. Although O'Neil's side were held to a 1-1 draw in the FA Cup third round by Brentford, they will look to make amends for their mistakes in the replay on January 16 at Molineux.