Oh, to be young again.
"Yeah, I've always felt like I'm fearless and not scared of anything. I feel like I deserve to be here. It's always a dream to play in the Premier League and I've got to take it in."
Not least among the striking features of Mateus Mane's day at Molineux last Saturday was his air of calm while fielding questions in the tunnel after the game.
Within one week, he had made not only his first Premier League start, but three.
He had been given his chance in two of the country's landmark football arenas, Anfield and Old Trafford, and then in front of the home supporters.
On each occasion, he was his team's brightest light in an improved performance, capping his week by ramming in his first senior goal to spark joy in the stands.
His relaxed demeanour afterwards made it all seem, simply, normal: this is who I am now, and this is what I do.
Had he, I wondered, allowed himself a moment to digest where he was and, as you or I might, gasp at the view?
"Sometimes I'm speaking to my brother or my friends and we just talk about my past and stuff, and we actually realise how things can go, and change quick," he said.
I'll say.
Rob Edwards has wisely stressed recently that everyone – the club, fans and media – should "look after" Mane.
All the usual considerations about young players apply. It is unreasonable to expect him to be consistent, especially in a team that has struggled for so long, with fans eager to seize on anything hopeful.
Yes, over the last week Mane has seemed quite capable of looking after himself, on the field and off it, but he will need support as his reputation grows.
For now at least, he can count on tens of thousands of instant friends he made last weekend.
If he achieves nothing else this season, he has rekindled a flame that others in the team must now try to take forth with him.
Throughout his three starts, whenever allowed any room with the ball, he ran – quickly and directly – towards the goal and fired off a shot.
It looked like the football product of a young and clear mind, uncluttered by fears of past results and consequences.
It must not be left to Mane to carry the rest of the team now, but the glow around him can light the way forward.
And he should be given the time and space to enjoy the journey.
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