Return trip for Wolves' Kevin Doyle set to trigger Italian job memories

Nov 1 2009 by Bill Howell, Sunday Mercury

“Every time you see him on the television or listen on the radio you can see that and it’s very important that he behaves as he does.”

Mick McCarthy has already spoken of the possible knock-on effect for Wolves from a game that gives then little in terms of preparation for Saturday’s tough visit of Arsenal but gives them plenty of scope to build on already blossoming relationships.

Wallace too believes Doyle’s switch to Molineux could also add numbers to Wolves’ Irish supporters club

“When Kevin went to Reading the number of Reading shirts being worn in Wexford was phenomenal,” he said.

“They’ll probably all be after Wolves shirts now especially with them coming over for a game.

“Every person in Wexford will probably be looking for Wolves results now and will be wishing Kevin well.”

Doyle spent three years with Wexford and is relishing his trip “home”.

“I stopped playing at Wexford when I was 16 and so this will be the first time I’ve played on the ground as a professional,” said Doyle. “It should be fun and I’m looking forward to it.

“The pitch is five minutes from my parents’ house and there’ll be a good crowd there I’m sure.

“I think there have been a fair few Wolves shirts knocking about over there since I moved and I know my nephews are now kitted out in them.

“Mick Wallace has always been someone who I talk to and ask advice from and I’m delighted we are going over there which should give them a boost.”

Wallace’s early influence on Doyle’s career is something the player has fond memories of.

“Mick looked after us very well.” recalls Doyle.

“He’d bring us away to different places. Apart from Ireland he brought me to Italy three times.

“He was the one that kept me interested in football when it would have been easier to forget about it.”