Wolves: How Matt Jarvis got his big break

Aug 7 2011 by Gregg Evans, Sunday Mercury

MATT Jarvis really is the star of the show but his ever-improving career could easily have never kickstarted.

Last season his name went into Wolves folklore when he became the first gold and black representative to play for England in 20 years after back-to-back seasons of dazzling displays.

He also played a major role in keeping his side in the Premier League on the final day of the season and is seen as the catalyst to helping Wolves firmly establish themselves in the top flight.

But when he was a teenager his playing days looked to be fading into the distance, until Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler stepped in and saved the day.

“When we found out he had left Millwall, we thought we best give him an opportunity, because he had something,” said Hessenthaler, who is in his second spell in charge of the Gills after managing them between 2000-2004.

“He was only a kid, but he had exceptional pace and we felt that he could excite us and get people on seats even though he was at that young age.

“The one thing he needed to improve on was that final little bit, because he wasn’t the finished article by a long way.

“He had the pace and the trickery to go past people but he needed to improve.

“It took him a bit of time, but he came in and worked hard on the training ground and you could see what he had got.

“I’ve got to say, looking at him at that time, I didn’t think he would go and play in the Premier League.

“But by determination, sheer hard work and self-belief, he has achieved something in his career.