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Wolves 1-1 Aston Villa: Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves had to settle for a point in the end as they battled out a 1-1 draw with West Midlands rivals Aston Villa. Wolves initially took the lead thanks to yet another goal from Hwang Hee-Chan whose scoring streak continues. Unfortunately for Wolves, Villa replied almost immediately through Pau Torres. Both teams had chances to win it but ultimately a point a piece is fair on reflection.

Jose Sa – 7

A solid game from Sa who made three good saves, including one late on in the game. His distribution was fine and there was no real moments of panic, which sometimes you can expect to get from the Portuguese keeper. We need him to perform like this consistently.

Nelson Semedo – 6

He was largely untroubled by Moussa Diaby and Semedo had some bright points going forward on occasion. Unfortunately, Semedo was caught out by Ollie Watkins cross and let Torres get in front of him to score. Semedo for the majority of the game was solid.

Max Kilman – 7

The captain is clearly much more comfortable in a back three and gave a very assured performance. He noticeably stepped up with the ball frequently and won his duels. He had one miskick late on but Kilman was good and built on his performance from last week.

Craig Dawson – 8

The Dawson of last season has returned in the last two games and he was rock solid. It felt like he was on the end of every Villa cross and winning all of his duels. The change to the back three is allowing him to sit deeper and not be dragged out of position, and we are all the better for it.

Toti Gomes – 7

Another solid showing from Toti who still has not really let Wolves down since his debut. He was fairly solid and dealt with what come his way comfortably throughout. In possession he is still a bit shaky though.

Rayan Ait-Nouri – 7

The Algerian only played one half due to a suspected head injury, but the half he did play he was good. Nouri played with confidence and assurance and linked up well with Hwang, leading to Nouri flashing a shot across goal. He should be back for the Bournemouth game.

Mario Lemina – 7

Despite his late sending off, Lemina was as usual solid and tenacious particularly in the second half. He won the ball numerous times and then used it well to try and get Wolves on the attack. He will be a big miss for the Bournemouth game.

Joao Gomes – 5

Unfortunately the Brazilian was poor and it felt like he was second to everything today, which is not what we have come to expect from him. On the ball, he was also sloppy. There is no doubt Gomes will bounce back but today was one of his poorest games.

Pedro Neto – 8

Neto’s electric form continues with another assist.  A constant threat throughout if we are going to score the chances are high he is involved. He should have scored however in the second half but he blazed over the bar.

Matheus Cunha – 6

The Brazilian was involved in the goal getting the ball to Neto, but for the majority of the game Cunha felt like he was not involved. He as usual is full of running and great at ball carrying but today his influence was not felt.

Hwang Hee-Chan – 8

Hwang is on fire and has taken his tally to five league goals. His improvement is huge in his general play. His touch is much better and he uses the ball well. Hwang never lacked for effort but now his confidence is sky high and we have found a goal scorer.

Subs

Matt Doherty – 6

Sent on for Nouri and the Irishman was comfortable and did try and still push forward when given the chance.

Boubacar Traore – 7

Sent on for Gomes and Traore was good, he injected urgency into the game and won a fair few challenges.

Sasa Kalajdzic – 6

Set up Neto for a big chance and then had a chance himself which he fluffed.

Fabio Silva – 4

Failed to make an impact. He gave away fouls and was not strong enough in challenges.

Nunes

24-year-old could join the list of Molineux outgoings this summer

by with No Comment News

Manchester City are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Matheus Nunes, according to David Ornstein at the Athletic.  The Portugal international joined Wolves from Sporting Lisbon last Summer and has four years remaining on his contract, with a further years option should Wolves choose to activate it.

The 24-year-old has been a player who has attracted the attention of other clubs since joining Wolves, with most notably Liverpool taking the biggest interest in the player according to reports. 

City’s list of targets

Nunes is one of a few names on a short list for City alongside Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace. The interest should probably not come as a surprise as Pep Guardiola famously called Nunes “One of the best players in the world today.” This coming after City had beaten Sporting Lisbon 5-0 in 2022.

The long term injury to Kevin De Bruyne has seen City look to the transfer market in search of forward thinking midfielders. The current Premier League Champions have seen a recent deal for West Ham United’s Lucas Paqueta collapse. The Brazilian midfielder had agreed personal terms, but due to an ongoing investigation by the FA for a potential breach in gambling rules they pulled out of the move.

Wolves’ stance

Wolves have no interest in letting Nunes go according to Liam Keen from the Express & Star. He does follow it up however that Wolves would consider big offers.

This Summer has seen the Wolves hierarchy talk about the need to comply with financial fair play rules, which has been reflected in the incomings and outgoings we have seen so far. Wolves have spent nothing so far and it is unknown if the sale of Nunes for a hefty fee would then allow Wolves to strengthen other parts of the squad.

With only one week left until the transfer window closes, it looks to set to be a nervy one for Wolves as they look to hold onto a key player.

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Make or Break for Bruno Lage?

by with No Comment NewsOpinion

Wolves are set to embark on their fifth successive Premier League season, the second under Head Coach Bruno Lage. It was a season of ups and downs in the Portuguese’s first season at Molineux, a year full of promise which ultimately fizzled out into mid-table mediocrity. There were some promising signs for sure, but an alarming dip in form at the end of the season led to some questioning his ability to lead the team going forward. Pessimism has been rife among the Wolves fanbase in recent weeks, but the addition of Nathan Collins from Burnley has wet the appetite for more arrivals. Lage stated that he wanted most of the business done before pre-season began, but that wish has not been fulfilled. Ahead of Wolves’ pre-season games in Alicante, Talking Wolves looks back at Bruno Lage’s first season in charge, and what might be in store for the season ahead.

 

A Look Back

Promising Beginnings

Lage’s first season at Molineux started with great promise. A tough opening run saw Wolves lost all three first games 1-0, but performance levels warranted far more, leaving fans were optimistic of what the season may bring. As the season progressed, good football was ultimately sacrificed for better results. Wolves suffered just 4 defeats in 19 games from the 1-0 win at Southampton in February to the 2-1 win over Leicester in March. While performance levels had not matched that of the opening games, Wolves’ results were not undeserved. Impressive and deserved wins against Everton, Brighton, Manchester United, Tottenham and Brentford had Wolves fans revelling in what may come under Lage. The Monday night win against Everton at the beginning of November moved Lage’s men into 7th and they didn’t drop out of the top 8 until the final day of the season.

A Disappointing End

Unfortunately, Wolves failed when it really mattered. Successive defeats against European rivals Arsenal in February seemed to be the catalyst for a poor run of form, as well as a lacklustre display away at West Ham who were just a point ahead of Wolves at the time. There is no way of hiding it, it was a dreadful end to the season. Just three wins in the final 14 games is, in truth, relegation form. After the aforementioned defeats, Wolves had looked as if they had overcome their blip with wins over Watford and Everton. However, a dramatic and controversial defeat at home to Leeds United proved to be the tipping point. Wolves blew away Aston Villa at an ecstatic Molineux the following week, but that would be their final victory of the season. An impressive comeback at Chelsea which Lage watched from home having contracted COVID-19 was the only bright spark in the final seven games. Finishing 10th was, in many ways, an underachievement and disappointment given the great run of results during the winter and the league position entering the final stage of the season. However, expectations were low going into the season and many Wolves fans would have taken it with some signs of progression under Lage heading into the 2022/23 campaign.

 

A Look Ahead

Alarm bells were certainly ringing at the end of the season, and rumours on Lage’s future (without substance) were in sections of the media. What was noticeable was a lack of Wolves fans agreeing with or even entertaining such rumours. Fans were concerned, but far more concerned at the club’s ability to recruit well in what was clearly a crucial summer ahead. There is certainly a feeling of ‘Back Bruno’ rather than sack him, as fans want him to get the chance he deserves with his own players, perhaps changing the formation and style of play.

As reported by the Express & Star, it is becoming increasingly likely that Wolves will switch to a back four and play a more attacking style of play this season. This is something Lage had wanted to do from the off, but he felt the players at the club were not of the right profile to do so. Despite the optimism, a formation change may bring, there is no room for a poor start to the 2022/23 campaign. The poor end to the season is still very much in the memory, and a poor start will no doubt raise concern about the season ahead.

Some would argue Lage was hardly backed by the club prior to the 2021/22 campaign. While Jose Sa was a superb addition to the side, Wolves did very little to improve the squad from the previous year. An uncertain and incomplete start to the transfer window has fans contemplating what success may look like. It is still early days in the transfer window, but Wolves begin their pre-season tour with games against Alaves on Wednesday, Levante on Thursday, and Besiktas on Saturday. Lage will want his squad to begin to take shape by the end of the tour with the trip to Leeds less than three weeks away.

Lage clearly has a huge amount of gratitude for the fans, and he had begun to build a close connection with them, particularly travelling fans after away games. This was something that had been lacking early in the season, but whoever followed Nuno Espirito Santo into the role was always going to face that difficulty. Wolves fans appreciate him, and he has mentioned several times his surprise at the level of support he has been given. A strong start to the season would only see this relationship grow stronger. A formation change looks increasingly likely, which will bring a sense of excitement to the season. There is also still an expectation that Wolves will bring in at least another three players. If this is the case, and star man Ruben Neves stays with the club, who knows what another full pre-season under the dedicated and attack-minded Lage could bring.

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

Stan Cullis

Wolves 2-1 Aston Villa – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves bounced back from their disappointing collapse against Leeds United with a sweet victory in the West Midlands derby against Aston Villa. A first half goal from Jonny Castro Otto combined with an Ashley Young own goal was enough to give Wolves all three points, but it was a nervy end to the game with Ollie Watkins pulling one back for Villa from the penalty spot five minutes from time. The score line certainly does not do Wolves’ performance justice and in truth, Bruno Lage’s men should have been out of site before the Villa goal. Ollie Watkins did have two golden chances earlier in the second half for Villa, but Jose Sa was equal to it. Wolves are firmly in the European hunt with just seven games to go, but they will need results elsewhere to go in their favour if they are to make it.

 

Jose Sa

Yet another superb display from Sa who played a huge role in Wolves’ victory in the second half. He made two excellent saves from Watkins and Cash to preserve the lead and can take little blame for what was a very dubious penalty. 8/10

 

Willy Boly

Recovered from a poor display against Leeds to show glimpses of the Willy Boly of old. For the most part he was calm and assured both with and without the ball. He did let Watkins in behind early in the second half but the England international placed his shot the wrong side of the post. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

An excellent display from Wolves’ captain who relishes these games and atmospheres. Coady was solid defensively and played a huge role in the final ten minutes as Wolves came under pressure with Villa searching for an equaliser. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Restored to the side after being dropped for the defeat against Leeds. Kilman was impressive defensively and linked well with Moutinho and Dendoncker in possession too. Much more like it from Kilman following a difficult few games prior to the international break. 8/10

 

Jonny Otto

Two goals in two games for Jonny who has been a revelation since returning to the side in February. Playing on the right-hand side Jonny poses a far greater attacking threat than when on the left, combined with his usual assured defending, Jonny is proving just how much Wolves have missed him this season. 9/10

 

Joao Moutinho

Much was made about the absence of Ruben Neves prior to the game but Joao Moutinho certainly stepped up to the plate and delivered a masterclass in midfield play. His range of passing was excellent and almost everything Wolves did going forward came through him. Surely, he has one more year in him… 9/10

Leander Dendoncker

Dendoncker came into the side for the injured Neves and produced arguably his best performance of the season. Dendoncker was influential at both ends of the pitch and could have found himself on the scoresheet, but he sliced a good chance wide just before half time. 8/10

 

Marcal

Like Dendoncker, Marcal saved one of his best performances of the season for the derby at Molineux. He was relatively solid with few mistakes and produced an excellent cross for the second goal as Ashley Young could only divert into his own net. 8/10

 

Daniel Podence

Another good performance from Podence who was involved in almost every attacking move. He played a crucial role in the opening goal and got into several good positions, but the final ball and finish was often missing. 7/10

 

Fabio Silva

A rare start for Fabio Silva and the young forward certainly took his chance! Silva’s link up play was superb and played a huge role in Wolves’ victory. He will perhaps be disappointed with his chance just eight minutes into the game to put Wolves two goals to the good, but Silva can take great confidence from this display, continue this level of performance, and that goal will soon come. 8/10

 

Francisco Trincao

A deserved start after his impressive substitute appearance against Leeds and Trincao did not let Bruno Lage down. His final ball was at times frustrating, but his skill and trickery means Trincao took up some good positions and contributed to a huge result. 7/10

 

Subs:

Hwang Hee-Chan

A good cameo from Hwang who will be disappointed to see his effort mid-way through the second half go just wide of the post having done brilliantly to create the opportunity. His energy and intelligence in the press were important in the closing stages as Wolves held on to their lead. 7/10

 

Pedro Neto

An energetic cameo from Neto who was a useful outlet in the closing stages, getting Wolves up the pitch to relieve pressure on the back line. 6/10

 

Chiquinho

Came on for the final few minutes as Wolves held on for victory. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

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Arsenal 2-1 Wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves fell to a gut-wrenching late defeat at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday evening after a 95th minute Jose Sa own goal gave Arsenal their second victory of Bruno Lage’s men in just three weeks. Wolves started extremely well and took the lead through Hwang Hee Chan after just twelve minutes. However, Wolves failed to sustain their good start and were under pressure for most of the game. Despite all the possession, Arsenal created little in the way of clear-cut chances but drew level through Pepe with eight minutes to go. Just as the game looked to be closing out with an impressive draw for Wolves, Lacazette got the better of Romain Saiss, whose deflected effort was guided in by the outstretched arm of Sa. It was the worst possible way to lose a football match, but Wolves only have themselves to blame.

 

Jose Sa

An unusually nervy display from the Wolves shot stopper who did not look comfortable throughout the game. He came for a cross more than once but failed to claim and gave the ball away far too easily with his long distribution. He did pull off several good saves to make amends and could do little more with Lacazette’s late deflected strike. 6/10

 

Max Kilman

A solid defensive performance from Max Kilman who even had the acclaim of the Wolves fans in the second half. He, like many others, struggled to deal with the Arsenal press meaning Wolves lost possession in dangerous areas. 7/10

 

Conor Coady

Like Kilman, Coady was relatively solid throughout, but struggled to get a foothold in the game to keep possession. His surging run forwards in the second half was desperately unlucky to be pulled back for a ‘foul’ on Ben White. 6/10

 

Romain Saiss

Saiss struggled to deal with the pace of the Arsenal back line at times but often recovered with a last-ditch tackle in the area. He will be disappointed with his part in both goals as Lacazette got the better of him in the area. 5/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Dealt with almost everything that came his way defensively without having any real impact on the game with the ball. He was withdrawn on the hour mark with a hamstring injury. 6/10

 

Joao Moutinho

A poor performance from Moutinho who struggled with the pace and intensity of the game in the middle of the park. Wolves could not keep the ball in any area of the pitch but were also far too easy to get through in midfield. A game that perhaps highlights the lack of recruitment in midfield in recent transfer windows. 5/10

Ruben Neves

Failed to live up to the heights of recent performances, but this was no different to many others on the pitch. Neves tried to get on the ball and make things happen, but it simply would not stick for Wolves. He certainly tried to win the ball back wherever possible, but the Arsenal midfield were often too strong. 6/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

One of Wolves’ better players on the pitch despite a few defensive mishaps. Looked to get on the ball wherever possible and wanted to get forward during the second half. His dangerous run in the final five minutes teed up Pedro Neto was a huge chance to win the game. 7/10

 

Daniel Podence

Wasn’t for the want of trying but Podence struggled to have any real impact on the game, not helped by the inability of his teammates to keep the ball around him. 6/10

 

Raul Jimenez

There was certainly some warranted criticism for Jimenez after another sub-standard performance. He has failed to kick on from his goal against Tottenham and this was a big contributing factor to Wolves’ poor performance. 5/10

 

Hwang Hee Chan

Easily Wolves’ best player on the pitch whose endeavour to press Arsenal high up the pitch and win the ball back in dangerous areas led to almost every chance Wolves created. He got his deserved early goal and could easily have had a second early in the second half. 8/10

 

Subs:

Jonny Castro Otto

A very welcome sight to see Jonny back on the pitch after his injury nightmare in the past two years. He played at right back replacing the injured Nelson Semedo and was solid for his half an hour cameo. More importantly he looked sharp and match fit, a huge boost for Wolves in the final third of the season. 7/10

 

Pedro Neto

Desperately unlucky not to put Wolves back in front with just minutes remaining in an effort that should have resulted in a corner. He was lively and, like Jonny, will be a massive boost for Wolves in the closing stages of the season. 7/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Played the final moments of the game as Wolves tried and failed to hold on to their point. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

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Brentford 1-2 Wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves continued their good form with a 2-1 victory over Brentford in Wanderers first visit to the Brentford Community Stadium. It was a bizarre first half which saw 19 minutes of added time following a nasty clash of heads between two Brentford defenders before an ‘unofficial drone’ stopped play again. The second half however was all about the action on the pitch. A superb finish from Joao Moutinho put Wolves ahead before Ivan Toney converted a free kick to level the scores. The goal was the direct result of a foul by Toti Gomes who was initially sent off, but the decision was overturned by VAR. Wolves won it with twelve minutes to go with Ruben Neves’ 20-yard strike. Traore had the ball in the net in stoppage time in what was possibly his final game in a Wolves shirt, but Var ruled that he was just offside. Wolves now have a two week break before their next encounter, an FA Cup tie at home to Norwich.

 

Jose Sa

Sa had little to deal with in terms of shots on goal but commanded his area very well against a physical Brentford side. Wolves’ relative ease at defending throw ins and corners will partly be down to his organisation and dominance. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Another good defensive performance from Kilman who has established himself as Wolves’ most consistent performer. He dealt with everything that was thrown at him and looked comfortable on the ball despite an intense Brentford press. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

Defended well and, like Kilman, managed to keep the ball well despite a high press. Coady will also have played a crucial role in ensuring the players did not lose concentration during long stoppages in the first half. 8/10

 

Toti Gomes

Kept his place after an impressive debut and certainly did not let the team down here. He defended well and did not look out of place at any moment. He will be relieved to see his red card overturned as it looks increasingly likely he will stay at Molineux for the rest of the season. 8/10

 

Nelson Semedo

An excellent performance from Semedo who continues his impressive upturn in form. He was arguably Wolves’ most influential player going forwards, using width to great effect and looking to link with the midfield where possible. It was his combination with Moutinho that led to the first goal and his good work down the right which created the second. 9/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Kept his place in the starting XI despite the return of Ruben Neves as Bruno Lage opted for a three-man midfield to match their opponents. Dendoncker was incredibly effective defensively, easing the pressure on the back three acting as a last man in a low block midfield. He was also good in the air as Wolves dealt with Brentford’s set pieces with relative ease. 8/10

 

Joao Moutinho

A performance the oozed class as Moutinho continues to shine this season. His goal was one of real quality, finishing with the outside of his foot giving the keeper no chance. 9/10

Ruben Neves

Returned to the team following a COVID-19 related absence last week. He did not waste any time bedding back in and produced a masterclass in midfield play alongside Moutinho which ultimately provided the platform for Wolves to win the game. 9/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

A quieter afternoon for Ait-Nouri with most Wolves’ play coming down the right-hand side. He dealt with everything that came his way and looks increasingly assured defensively. It is certainly not a foregone conclusion that Jonny will return to the team when fit given the form of Ait-Nouri. 7/10

 

Fabio Silva

Handed a rare Premier League start with Raul Jimenez missing out as a precaution. He was lively up front but had little impact on the game with the ball. 7/10

 

Daniel Podence

Like Silva, Podence was quiet and had little impact on the game with most of Wolves’ play coming from the midfield and Nelson Semedo. He did however work extremely hard to ensure Brentford could not play out from the back too easy. 7/10

 

Subs:

Adama Traore

There is a good chance that Adama Traore may have played his last game in a Wolves shirt, and it is certainly fitting that it was win if that is to be the case. He will no doubt be gutted that his goal with just minutes remaining was just offside, but Traore has been an excellent servant over 3 and a half years and will no doubt be missed. 8/10

 

Francisco Trincao

Played the final moments, providing fresh legs up front as Wolves looked to see out the win. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

Steve Bull Stand

Wolves 3-1 Southampton – Player Ratings

by with No Comment Player Ratings

Wolves continued their good form with a 3-1 victory over Southampton at Molineux on Saturday. Wolves took the lead mid-way through the first half with a calmly dispatched Raul Jimenez penalty after a rare VAR intervention in Wolves’ favour. Jose Sa pulled off several good saves to maintain Wolves’ lead before Conor Coady netted in front of the Southbank to make it two. A stunning free kick from James Ward-Prowse gave the Saints hope with ten minutes to go, but substitute Adama Traore slotted home the third in stoppage time to round off the victory. Bruno Lage’s men remain eighth and are firmly in the hunt for a European place ahead of next week’s trip to Brentford

 

Jose Sa

Played a huge part in Wolves’ victory with two excellent saves before half time to maintain Wolves’ lead. He was calm and assured throughout and is finally getting the recognition he deserves in the media. 9/10

 

Max Kilman

Yet another superb defensive display from Wolves’ latest hero. Kilman did everything that was required of him with ease and looked assured on the ball. He was desperately unlucky to see his looping header hit the post, but with performances like this, those ‘Kilman for England’ chants will only get louder. 9/10

 

Conor Coady

Another good display from the Wolves captain who had a memorable moment with his goal in front of the Southbank in the second half. He doesn’t score many, but his goal is just reward for his fine form this season. 9/10

 

Toti Gomes

A surprise inclusion having been recalled from Grasshoppers at the start of January, but Gomes repaid the faith of Bruno Lage who admitted he did not know anything about the Portuguese defender at the beginning of the month. Defensively, he was brilliant, and despite giving the ball away in possession, Gomes had as good a debut as he could have hoped for. 8/10

 

Nelson Semedo

A quiet afternoon for the Wolves right wing back who was solid and linked play well. He didn’t have the attacking influence we have seen in recent weeks but another good performance none the less. 7/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Kept his place in the starting XI as Ruben Neves missed out with COVID-19. The Belgian midfielder put in a good performance, breaking up play and proving an effective aerial presence. He did however, slow the pace of play down particularly in the first half. 7/10

 

Joao Moutinho

Continued his good form with another performance full of class and quality which we have come to expect. Moutinho orchestrated the midfield with ease despite the loss of Neves alongside him. 8/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Ait-Nouri produced another excellent display, and like many others is arguably in the best form of his Wolves career. He won the ball back on several occasions and linked play well going forwards.  8/10

 

Francisco Trincao

Trincao was largely anonymous for most of his time on the pitch. He had little influence on the front three and despite some nice touches, is not staking a claim for a starting place with the imminent return of Pedro Neto.  6/10

 

Raul Jimenez

A much-improved performance from Jimenez following a recent dip in form. Jimenez linked play well and lead the press from the front. He dispatched his penalty well in the usual style to set Wolves on their way. 8/10

 

Daniel Podence

A quieter performance from Podence following his two goals against Sheffield United last week. He looked good on the ball and looked to bring Jimenez and Trincao into play when possible. 7/10

 

Subs:

Adama Traore

A very good cameo from the bench from Traore as speculation continues over his future. Traore missed a glaring chance with just minutes to go but finally got this first Premier League goal of the season, slotting home with his weaker foot in stoppage time. 8/10

 

Fabio Silva

Yet another impressive cameo from Fabio Silva who was very effective at getting Wolves higher up the pitch in the closing stages. He produced an excellent piece of skill to create a chance for himself which was well saved. 8/10

 

Luke Cundle

Came on for the final minute of the game for his Premier League debut. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

 

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Wolves 3-0 Sheffield United – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves progressed into the fourth round of the FA Cup with ease following a 3-0 demolition of Championship side Sheffield United at Molineux. Bruno Lage fielded a strong side following Monday’s victory at Old Trafford, and his Wolves team have been rewarded with another home time, this time against a struggling Norwich side in round four. Following a nervy start to the game, Daniel Podence set Wolves on their way giving thanks to good work from Fabio Silva. A superb second goal finished by Nelson Semedo made the game comfortable before Podence rounded the scoring off with his second of the day.

 

John Ruddy

Wolves’ back up goalkeeper proved his worth with several good saves to ensure the game remained comfortable. His save from Billy Sharp’s close-range effort shortly after the second goal ensured Wolves could relax for the closing stages of the game. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Yet another faultless display from Kilman whose consistency is quite something. He did all that was required of him defensively and looked to get involved in attacks where possible. That England call up can’t be far away. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

Coady, like Kilman, produced a faultless display at the heart of the defence. His ball distribution was excellent and played a big part in the build up to the Wolves goals. Following a shaky start, Coady may well be having the best season of his career. 8/10

 

Marcal

Played the first half on the left side of the back three but was withdrawn at half time as a precaution. Marcal gave the ball away in a dangerous area on more than one occasion but recovered well to ensure the clean sheet remained intact.  7/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Another excellent display from Nelson Semedo who has really started to prove his worth this season. His link up play down the right flank was superb and he was faultless defensively. His determination to get on the end of Ait-Nouri’s cross for the second gaol summed up his performance. 9/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Played alongside Neves in the midfield in the first half, often breaking play up and allowing Neves the space to be creative on the ball. He then moved to the right-hand side of the back three for the second 45 minutes and looked assured, proving an effective aerial presence when defending. 7/10

 

Ruben Neves

Another superb display from Neves in the Wolves midfield who may just be in the form of his Wolves career now. His passing range was a joy to behold, and the Sheffield United midfield did not know what to do with him. 8/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Back following injury and back to the promising form his showed at the start of the season. Ait-Nouri was determined and direct, looking to take players on and get to the by-line. His cross to Semedo for the second goal was weighted perfectly. He has certainly staked a claim for a start against Southampton on Saturday. 8/10

 

Adama Traore

A surprise inclusion following mounting speculation of a move away from Molineux this month. Traore was not afraid to get on the ball but was largely ineffective with it. He seemed reluctant to take players on out wide, often coming infield to more crowded areas. He certainly gave the United defenders something to think about, but it just didn’t quite come off for him. 7/10

 

Fabio Silva

An excellent performance from Fabio Silva who felt the appreciation of the Molineux crowd for the first time when he was substituted in the second half. His link up play with Podence was extremely pleasing and ultimately created the first goal. With Raul not in the best form, Silva may soon be knocking on the door for a Premier League start. 8/10

 

Daniel Podence

Without doubt the best player on the pitch. Podence’s movement on and off the ball was mesmerising, leaving the Sheffield United defence dumbstruck. He will be delighted to get on the scoresheet again, having been prolific in the League cup earlier in the season too. 9/10

 

Subs:

Joao Moutinho

Played the second half and produced the calm and assured midfield display we have come to expect. It certainly wasn’t the most difficult 45 minutes of football he will have played, and he is likely to regain his place in the starting XI for the game against Southampton. 7/10

 

Raul Jimenez

Linked play well with the midfield and wing backs but couldn’t fashion a clear-cut chance to get on the scoresheet. He will be keen to rediscover his form following the impressive display from Silva. 7/10

 

Francisco Trincao

An impressive cameo from Trincao who went on several dazzling runs through the midfield and defence. As has often been the case this season, Trincao’s end product was lacking, often holding on to the ball too long or opting to shoot when the pass is the better option. 7/10

 

Bruno Jordao

Will be delighted to get back into first team action following two serious injuries. Bruno Lage is thought to be impressed with Jordao and this is unlikely to be the last time we see him this season. N/A

 

Luke Cundle

Similar to Jordao, Bruno Lage is thought to be a big fan of academy graduate Luke Cundle, who has been on the bench numerous times this season. He came on for the final five minutes in the front three and looked calm and confident on the ball. N/A

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

Wolves stadium

Wolves 0-0 Burnley – Player Ratings

by with No Comment NewsPlayer Ratings

Wolves were held to their second successive 0-0 draw in the Premier League after it finished goalless against Burnley at Molineux on Wednesday night. It certainly was not one for the purists and Wolves failed to live up to the heights of their previous home game against West Ham. Despite this, Wolves had the opportunities to win the game, Adama Traore going closest with his effort crashing off the underside of the crossbar.

 

Jose Sa

A comfortable night for the Wolves goalkeeper with just the one major save to make from Dwight McNeil in the second half. His handling and command of the area was superb and gives the defence a huge confidence boost against sides like Burnley who have a dangerous physical presence in the box. 7/10

 

Max Kilman

Yet another excellent defensive display from Kilman who has hardly put a foot wrong all season. Kilman was excellent on the ball too, looking to bring the ball higher up the pitch allowing the midfield and wing backs to push on. Unfortunately  those around him were on a different wavelength at times. 8/10

 

Conor Coady

A faultless defensive display from Coady who organised and leaded the team as we have come to expect. He was unable to start any meaningful attacks from the back due to Burnley’s high press, so was restricted to sideways balls to his fellow defenders or wing backs in deeper positions. 7/10

 

Romain Saiss

Saiss, like the rest of the defence, had a comfortable evening with the visitors offering little threat going forwards. He too tried to play Ait-Nouri down the left flank as often as possible, but Wolves just couldn’t increase the tempo enough to put real pressure on Burnley. 7/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Possibly the pick of the players on the pitch in terms of his effort and endeavour in an attacking sense, but also his hard work tracking back and nullifying any threat Burnley had out wide. Semedo looked to link with Traore and Jimenez but nothing came to fruition. 7/10

 

Joao Moutinho

An increased responsibility on his shoulders with Neves missing out through suspension and Moutinho didn’t really have any impact on the game. He was calm and assured on the ball but never looked to find the pass to break the lines of defence. He was also too easy to get past from a defensive point of view in the midfield. 6/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

Replaced the suspended Neves and didn’t take his opportunity to stake a claim for a place in the starting XI. Dendoncker often slowed play down and had little impact in an offensive sense. Wolves missed Neves, there is no doubt about that. 5/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Overall, Ait-Nouri put in another good performance as he continues to develop. He was relatively sound defensively and comfortable on the ball. He saw a lot of the ball in the final third but often checked back, slowing the attack down. On the rare occasions he got to the by-line his cross was poor and Wolves could not create a meaningful chance from them. 6/10

 

Adama Traore

Just where to start with Adama Traore. On the one hand, if Traore wasn’t on the pitch Wolves would not have created a single chance all evening. On the other hand, Traore wasted numerous good positions including a break mid-way through the second half where he had acres of space and instead produced an awful, floated cross towards Jimenez which was easily intercepted. His effort that hit the crossbar was unlucky, but Jimenez was in a far better position to his left. It was yet another frustrating night for the Spanish winger. 6/10

 

Raul Jimenez

A quiet evening from Jimenez whose frustration was evident. There were signs of his partnership with Traore developing again, but Traore could not produce the final ball for him. He was often forced wide or deep to get the ball which left Wolves short of numbers in the box. 6/10

 

Hwang Hee-Chan

A typical Hwang performance, full of energy and enthusiasm showing just why he is adored by the Molineux crowd. He had a few half chances and looked to link with Traore and Jimenez where possible, but it was an off night in general for the front three. 6/10

 

Subs:

Francisco Trincao

Replaced Hwang for the final ten minutes and was unable to impact the game. He had one dazzling run through the midfield, but nothing came of the attack. It will be interesting to see whether he is restored to the starting XI for the visit of Liverpool on Saturday. 6/10

 

Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.

1024px-Carrow_Road_-_fans_holding_yellow_or_green_fliers

Norwich 0-0 wolves – Player Ratings

by with No Comment Player Ratings

Wolves held Norwich to a goalless draw at Carrow road on Saturday and were perhaps fortunate to leave with a point. After a promising first thirty minutes Wolves failed to create any meaningful chances and had goalkeeper Jose Sa to thanks for the clean sheet which ultimately earned the point. Despite the disappointing performance Wolves remain sixth and will look to continue their good form against Burnley at Molineux on Wednesday.

 

Jose Sa

It was yet another faultless display from the new Wolves number one who produced several good saves to earn Wolves a point. His save from Max Aarons late in the first half was particularly important, while his command of area and distribution was once again impressive. 8/10

 

Max Kilman

Wolves’ play of the season so far did not disappoint at Norwich, defending well both aerially and physically. He covered well for Semedo and looked to get on the ball as often as possible. 7/10

 

Conor Coady

An excellent defensive display from the Wolves captain who produced several important blocks and challenges as Norwich looked to find a way through. The lack of movement around him made starting attacks from the back difficult but Coady performed his primary duty to perfection. 8/10

 

Romain Saiss

Saiss, like the rest of the defence, put in an impressive defensive display, dealing with everything that came his way. With the absence of Wily Boly prolonged, Saiss must keep up his good form if Wolves are to pick up results in December. 7/10

 

Nelson Semedo

Semedo failed to live up to the heights of his performance against West Ham but in truths so did everyone who played ahead of him. The right wing back was solid enough defensively but lacked ambition and intensity going forward, opting for the safe pass at every opportunity. 6/10

 

Joao Moutinho

It was a poor performance from Moutinho who failed to have any real impact on the game both defensively and offensively. He struggled to link with the front three and the young Norwich midfield found it far to easy to bypass him. 5/10

 

Ruben Neves

After a promising start to the game, Neves also had little impact on the game after a superb performance against West Ham. He struggled to create and get any meaningful attacks going, with the those ahead of him static and isolated. 6/10

 

Rayan Ait-Nouri

Despite showing vast improvements in recent weeks, Ait-Nouri didn’t have his best display at Carrow Road. He was often caught out of position and lost possession far too easily. He had little effect on the game going forwards, like Semedo, opting for the safe pass too often. 5/10

 

Francisco Trincao

A poor display from Trincao who would only have come into the side at late notice following the news that Daniel Podence had tested positive for COVID-19. Trincao lost possession on far too many occasions and failed to link with his fellow forwards to create meaningful chances. 4/10

 

Raul Jimenez

It wasn’t for the want of trying from Jimenez, but he had an incredibly quiet afternoon, failing to register a shot on target. He was often seen coming deep to get the ball, which is also the fault of those around him, as he tried to get Wolves on the front foot to no avail. 6/10

 

Hwang Hee-Chan

Like Jimenez there was certainly no lack of effort from the latest fans favourite, but Hwang struggled to get into the game and couldn’t link with those around him as Wolves failed to have any real sustained spells of pressure in the game. 5/10

 

Subs:

Adama Traore

Just what is going on with Adama Traore? Came off the bench with half an hour to go and had little to no impact on the game. In his defence he was switched into three different positions during his time on the field. His ineffective cameo will only raise further questions over his future and why Bruno Lage continues to leave him on the bench. 5/10

 

Leander Dendoncker

A much-needed physical presence in the midfield for the closing stages of the game and is likely to start against Burnley on Wednesday evening following Ruben Neves picking up his fifth yellow card of the season. 6/10

 

Ki-Jana Hoever

Played the final minutes of the game allowed Traore to move further forward in case there was a chance for a late counter attack. N/A