Republic of Ireland youth international Ronan was handed his senior professional debut in the 81st minute at the City Ground when he replaced Helder Costa.

The midfielder has been touted as a future Wolves star and has caught the eye of new boss Paul Lambert.

And though his debut was the first step on his Wolves journey in the eyes of the supporters in attendance, a heart-warming message from his dad on Facebook revealed it was also the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice.

Steven Ronan posted a picture of his 18-year-old son's shirt with the message: "Only a piece of nylon that he gave to his brother straight after the game, but it means so much more.

"Carlisle and Shrewsbury away on Sunday mornings in January.

"Getting p****d through at Matthew Moss (High School, in Rochdale) at training every week.

"Running your own team to give the kids a chance and setting up pitches in all weather.

"Inter-league games in all four corners of the country and early starts and late finishes.

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"Having the self belief and willpower to stay in because you have a game the day after.

"Been there pretty much every step of the way, but now my work as a dad is done.

"I am off to get drunk because b****y hell son you only went and did it and if you never kick a ball again it doesn't matter as you made mine and your mum's and even your lickle brother's dream come true."

It capped off a fine week for Ronan whose 30-yard free kick sealed a 1-0 win for Wolves' under-23 side over West Bromwich Albion on Monday evening.

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The 18-year-old, who was born in Rochdale, has been on Wolves' last two pre-season tours with the first team but had yet to make his senior bow despite twice being named as substitute before Saturday.

Ronan was named academy player of the year for 2015/16 and also won the Ireland Under-17 player of the year award.