Wolves Views

Thank you and goodbye Mick.

2012-02-13T11:34:00.001Z

It's official, Mick McCarthy has been sacked.

It was coming.I think every Wolves fan would agree about that but it really is very sad. This is the man who took over in 2006 with a paper thin squad and gave us a team to be proud of. This is the man who gave us Premier League football and famous results against some of the top teams in world football. I will always, always be grateful for that.

The killer match for me wasn't just yesterday, it was a couple of weeks before against Villa. We finally looked like we might be turning things round, with Kightly finally fit, Frimpong looking like a star and O'Hara still to come back. It was all fitting. Frimpong got injured, Henry sent off and we fell apart. Did we ever really recover?

The worst thing is that he will now be remembered for what was his last game, the disgraceful defeat to West Brom. I don't even want to go into that, but it's terrible that we won't remember him for the above and more, and that he leaves with bad taste but he deserves all the praise and thanks he gets for what really was, a fine job.

There is more to be said over the next few days but thank you Mick, and goodbye.

What was your first Black Country Derby?

2012-02-10T20:22:00.000Z

Finally.

That's right, on Sunday I, Louie Silvani, will (weather permitting) be attending my first Black Country derby.

Sad right?

Of course, it's not going to be the first remember but today I was interested to know what everyone's first experience of a Wolves-Albion match. I expect it to be a great atmosphere, tense but hopefully enjoyable.

I asked some of the Wolves twitter army their first ever Wanderers v Albion game:

The two videos I was sent:

What was the first match you attended? Feel free to share, whether it was a good or bad result!

Nice to have you back, Kevin

2012-02-04T20:22:00.000Z

Phew. Funny feeling isn't it, this winning thing?

Hopefully we can start getting used to it after a much needed three points, lucky ones at that too, for me. Cisse's silly act of petulance cost his team dearly, thankfully.

In came Sebastien Bassong. Though he was at fault for the goal, I was impressed with him. Strong, quick, composed and comfortable on the ball. Christophe Berra can count himself rather unlucky, but it was always going to be the one who Bassong came in for.

On his return, Jamie O'Hara was my man of the match. Got about the pitch well, moved the ball quickly and when we created something, he was at the heart of it. He's a huge player for us and we really have missed him, we need to keep him fit for the rest of the season.

Stephen Ward put in an improved performance, he's been below his high standards recently but he hasn't let it affect him. He dealt with Wright-Phillips pretty well and as usual gave us something extra going forward.

He's back

And how good was it to see Kevin Doyle looking sharp and confident? He revelled in a free role, driving with the ball, pulling defenders apart and taking some shots(!). He probably had more shots in that second half than he had previously in the whole season! Created the first, scored the winner. Not bad and I expect him to be pushing for a start against Albion.

A final word on Wayne Hennessey's save. If you haven't seen it, FIND IT. It is one of the best saves I've seen all season, he's been superb all season and though he's made a few mistakes lately, deserves all the praise he gets.

Hennessey - 8

Stearman - 6
Johnson - 6
Bassong - 7
Ward - 7

Foley - 7
Edwards - 6
O'Hara - 8
Frimpong - 6
Jarvis - 7

Fletcher - 7

Subs: Ebanks-Blake - 7, Doyle - 8, Milijas n/a.

We desperately needed a win ahead of a huge game next week at home to West Brom. A win would take us two points behind them, and would really give us that winning feeling. I genuinely thought we were down and out on Tuesday, but this Wolves team have knack of hauling themselves back into it.

Late starters

2012-02-03T16:52:00.005Z

I heard a terrible stat the other day.

The only team in the Premier League not to score in the opening fifteen minutes of a game are, you guessed it, Wolves.

Now that really is, pathetic.

We give ourselves an uphill task so often, by being asleep for the first fifteen to twenty minutes. We've concede a silly amount during that time, it's no wonder that generally this season we have played well in the second half, chasing the game.

90k a week, good lord

Tuesdsay was an exception to that rule. To put it simply, we fell apart. Heads went, players went missing and it was so bad Steve Morgan even went to the dressing room to tell the players how he felt. However right or wrong he was to do that, I agree with him and hopefully it will give the players a kick up the arse. They have it too easy for me, we haven't seen the spirit that has seen us through from recent seasons.

I'm hoping for two changes to our game for our game tomorrow at Loftus Road. Firstly, Christophe Berra out, and Sebastien Bassong in. Extremely harsh on Christophe, but for me Bassong is a step up in class and with the other central defending being right footed, and our captain I think it will be Berra who is dropped.

Secondly, Jamie O'Hara for Eggert Jonsson. I feel sorry for Eggy, he had a decent game but he had a lot of abuse directed his way, unfairly. It really is no use leaving O'Hara on the bench if he's going to be in the squad, we need him to make an impact from the start, not when we are chasing the game again.

If we are going to get something from this game we need a performance. Not for half an hour, forty five minutes or an hour but for the whole game. We need to be committed, keep the ball and use our wingers effectively. Players to watch our for are Cisse and Zamora, but let's hope it takes them a while for a partnership to form.

My team would be:

Hennessey

Foley
Johnson
Bassong
Ward

Frimpong
O'Hara

Kightly
Edwards
Jarvis

Fletcher

That is a full strength team, and I hope we persevere with something like that for the rest of the season.

I had a dream that we would thrash QPR, but I'm going to go for a close game, but ultimately we will lose. 2-1 QPR. I can't remember what winning feels like, we need to get that feeling back, quickly.

Setting the tone

2012-01-27T19:35:00.001Z

There's one thing that really bugs me about Wolves.

It's not Mick's team selections, Jez Moxey's transfer dealings, our position in the league table or the fact that we've won 2 in 20 league games and it's not that we aren't in the FA Cup this weekend.

It's our version of this:

Our bloody kick offs. At the start of the match or when we concede and we play the ball straight back to Wayne Hennessey, who gives it a great big kick down to the other end.

Why?

I've seen it so many times, and it goes straight to the opposition goalkeeper. Arsenal away, no one even went forward for it, we just gave it to Sczezny. It just sets the tone, that we are here to just hoof it, which we really shouldn't be.

When Jamie O'Hara signed, I thought we had got rid of it. In his first start, I remember him and Karl Henry having a lengthy conversation, which ended with Henry pointing to our goalkeeper, Henry played it to him, he passed it to Hennessey and he did what he usually does. A couple of games later Henry played it to him and he ran forward with the ball, and made a forward pass. It immediately set a new tone, that we wanted to keep the ball on the floor and attack.

But, we have resorted back to it, and the freshness from O'Hara was gone. What is the thinking? Is it that we will be in their half now? Because nine out of ten times we aren't, they have the ball!

If I ever get the chance to talk to Mick, that's what my first question would be about. But hey, maybe Frimpong will be the one to say this time 'what the hell is this?'.

Could this game decide Mick's future?

2012-01-20T18:00:00.001Z

There haven't been too many points at which I've thought 'Mick's job is in trouble now', but this is one of them.

Maybe at times during the 07/08 season, and during Swansea and Sunderland games but generally his job has always seemed extremely secure. And maybe it still is.

The Birmingham game seemed to have been a huge tipping point for fans. On forums, blogs, articles, social networks, it was the worst I've seen at times. It wasn't the fact that we had lost to a Championship side, and our rivals (which is bad enough), but the fact that yet again we looked like a poor footballing side playing a rigid formation.

That's what the problem has been this season, there hasn't been much to give us hope. Last season, we looked like a side that just needed a bit of luck and that we could pull away (I still think we would have if Doyle hadn't got injured), whereas this year we have played next to no football, at anytime. We haven't had any great footballing performances like City home and away, United away and Chelsea away.

A poor performance, and defeat to go with it and I actually think Morgan may think he needs to take action. With only a week and a half left of the transfer window, he might want to get someone in quickly to make his own signings.

A good performance, even if we didn't win, would go a long way to settling Wolves fans fears. Against a poor Villa side, who I think could easily get dragged into a relegation battle, we need to see that this team can get the ball down and move it about comfortably.

The question is, will Mick go with this approach, and can we put in a half decent performance tomorrow?

Taking shape

2012-01-11T15:45:00.001Z

It's taken until mid-January, but it finally feels like Woves can kick start their season.

It's always seemed to take us a while to get a fixed formation set, to get the players in the correct position's and for Mick to finally realise what we need. We need that more than ever now, with us trailing the team above us by five points, and four others breathing down our necks, it's quite remarkable that we haven't been in the bottom three this season.

Here is how I think we are going to, or try to set up from now.

I don't think there's any doubt that this man would be first choice keeper, Wayne Hennessey is vital to our survival chances. We can't afford for him to get injured, or sold because I'm not convinced Dorus de Vries has what it takes to play in the first team.

Oh Kevin Foley, how I have missed you. Mr Consistency showed his class in the cup game at Birmingham, looking infinitely better than Richard Stearman or Ronald Zubar have at all this season. Mick has hinted that he will start at Tottenham, thank god.

Roger Johnson finally looks like returning to form, with impressive performances lately. Injured his ankle in the cup, but should be okay at White Hart Lane where we are going to need a big performance from him.

You don't need to ask for a big performance from this man, he's given them week in week out all season long. Christophe Berra has shone lately, and has even been linked with a move away due to his brilliant form.

Stephen Ward completes the back four. Our player of the season so far, and though he has been a bit shaky lately continues to be a great outlet going forward as well as solid at the back. His partnership down the left hand side with Matt Jarvis is vital for us, when George Elokobi has played there we have seen Jarvo get less of the ball and be less impressive.

It was a great sight to see Michael Kightly finally looking sharp and ready for first team football at Wolves. He's been so unfortunate over the last two and a half years, but I firmly believe that this time 'Kights' is ready to make an impact in the Premier League.

I was delighted when we signed Emmanuel Frimpong on loan, because he's exactly the type of player we've been lacking. Infectious, moves the ball quickly and can get about the pitch. He looks like he has the right attitude, and hopefully we can get the best out of him.

Karl Henry comes in for a lot of criticism from the fans, but I think he's been one of our most consistent players this season. He does a great job for us, and you can see he's improving on his attacking side of the game. In the Chelsea game he was excellent, moving the ball quickly. Maybe it was to do with having Frimpong next to him, he seemed less scared to go forward.

I'm not convinced that we have seen the very best of Jamie O'Hara, but once he's fully fit I think he will be one of the players who benefit's most from this system. With two more defensive minded players with him in the middle, it gives him the freedom to get on the ball further up the pitch. We have seen he can get in good positions to score, so it's a case of using him effectively.

In Matt Jarvis we have one of the most dangerous wingers in the land. When he's confident, there's not a full back that can handle him. He is huge for us, and if he carries on with his recent form an England call up won't be far away.

12 starts, 8 goals. Has the best chances to goals record in the league. It's not hard to see why Mick is warning potential suitors not to bother bidding for Steven Fletcher. If we sell him, we are doomed.

So a 4-5-1 for me, with Frimpong and Henry holding, and O'Hara playing in front of them just off Fletcher. To me that looks like a decent side, as good if not better than the sides around us. It's not just the first eleven, we have Zubar, Stearman, Milijas, Edwards, Hunt, Hammill, Ebanks-Blake and Doyle all waiting to take their chance. All of a sudden our squad looks a whole lot stronger, and with time to make more signings could look even more impressive come the end of January.

Wolves 1 Chelsea 2

2012-01-02T17:27:00.000Z

Everything seemed to be right today. The team selection, the tactics, the individual performances but there was one thing our manager wasn't counting on.

The ref.

One thing all fans want is consistency, but are we EVER going to get it. The FA set the standard but choosing not to rescind Milijas' red card, so when a harder, more dangerous tackle with the intent to hurt by Frank Lampard goes in, can we not expect a red card?

Of course not, because we are Wolves and they are Chelsea, or any other top five or six club. It's tough, and as we have gotten to know over the last two and a half years, you have to get our way around on an already uneven playing field with the money in this league, made worse by the horrible inconsistency the referees in this league show.

Guess who scores the winner.

On our team, I thought for most parts we were great. Aside from a slow start we got in their faces, passed the ball about well and looked dangerous when we had a go at them.

Chelsea players pretend to care about their manager

Our midfield trio of Henry, Frimpong and Edwards was strong and with O'Hara and Milijas out, and Eggert Jonsson signing too there is going to be a great battle for a places in our midfield. Henry was the pick of the bunch, harassing, intercepting and moving the ball quickly when we countered. He's often (fairly) criticised for this, but recently he has shown great improvement in that area. On his debut, Emmanuel Frimpong was steady and I think we can expect more from him. To be fair to him, he's only had one day to get to know our players and he will definitely have a good impact for us as the season goes on.

At the back, we were solid once again. Christophe Berra hardly put a foot wrong, where as Roger Johnson is getting better all the time now. He had a couple of mad moments but he was positive and even sent us of on a few attacks, which was nice to see. Stephen Ward had a mixed game, missing a huge chance at nil nil, but he made up for it by scoring a well taken goal. Some may blame him for Ramires' goal but I thought he was just very unlucky.

Up top, Kevin Doyle had a good game. He tussled with David Luiz and John Terry and gave them plenty to think about. He was unlucky not to score with the last touch of the match as Petr Cech made an outstanding save.

Hennessey - 7

Stearman - 6
Johnson - 7
Berra - 8
Ward - 7

Hammill - 7
Henry - 8
Frimpong - 6
Edwards - 7
Forde - 6

Doyle - 7

Subs: Jarvis - 7, Fletcher - 7, Foley - 6

We have a tough set of games coming up, but if we can add some consistency to our performances I'm sure we can get some bonus points. If we can, it would put us in a great position going into February.

Respect? You need to earn it

2011-12-29T16:53:00.002Z

An independent Regulatory Commission has today dismissed a claim from Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Nenad Milijas, following his red card for serious foul play in Wolves’ game against Arsenal on 27 December.

Milijas has received a three match suspension starting with immediate effect.

What. A. Joke .

It's fair to say Stuart Atwell isn't my or any Wolves fan's favourite ref, he's cost us before, but he's made it ten times worse now. His failure to admit that he got this one wrong is ridiculous. We now miss an important player for three games, with no O'Hara and possibly no Edwards in the next game it leaves us with few options in midfield.

Time after time the FA promote their respect campaign, make captains at even Junior level where 'respect' armbands, but it needs to go both ways. He lost control of that game, and failed to admit it. He made horrendous decision after horrendous decision, and as a young ref he will hopefully learn from it, but why can't they reverse the decision?

Had Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United appealed against a red card for a tackle like this, do you honestly think it would have been dismissed?

How do the people also reviewing the appeal conclude that a one footed, sliding tackle that catches the ball is a red card offence anyway? Milijas hasn't got a dangerous bone in his body, and the footage shows that it isn't a dangerous tackle.

On video evidence, can they also not see that they missed two horrendous tackles by Song, which he only got booked for one of them? Both were stamps, and red cards in my eyes.

The FA really don't help themselves do they?

Wolves in 2011

2011-12-29T16:39:00.002Z

It's been a year of ups and downs for Wolves, but overall I'd say I've enjoyed it!

We've defeated Chelsea and Man United, thrashed Albion and vitally, stayed in the Premier League. We've had some lows, like Stoke away, or QPR away but that is part and parcel of being a struggling team in the Premier League, something we need to move on from.

Our record in 2011

10 wins (plus three in cup)
8 draws (plus one in cup)
18 defeats (plus two in cup)

So in 36 league games, we lost half and won or drew the rest. 38 points over 36 games is not bad at all, especially considering the horrible run of form we had from September through to November. A win against Bolton could make it 41, I would imagine a huge improvement from 2010.

Team of the year.

Here are my picks for team of the year, and why I chose them:

Wayne Hennessey - What a year this man has had. Topped off by his performance on Tuesday, our big keeper has gone from strength to strength. He was a huge part in us staying up last year, and will be again (if we can keep hold of him)

Ronald Zubar - Even though he has only played around four months of football this season, I'm opting for Zubes. He always plays with great enthusiasm, gives us another dimension going forward and can be a rock for us when he wants to be. Consistency is needed from him, but his performances have generally been okay.

Richard Stearman - Whether at right back or centre back, Stears has given us some great performances this season. He had a great game, keeping Bale quiet and he also had some great games at centre back, like the Man United game. I was hugely critical of him around this time last year, but he has really matured.

Christophe Berra - I'm starting to like Berra more with every game. He gets 'Berra' every game (sorry). He had a shaky period just before the run in at the end of last season but this year he has been one of our most consistent players and turned in some outstanding performances.

Stephen Ward - No brainer really, despite George Elokobi's heroics against United. Everyone was shouting for a left back, even me, but his standard of performance this season has been remarkable. I haven't seen him have a bad game yet, and with the fact that he was fantastic up front in the last four games of the 10/11 season means he has to be in this team.

Dave Edwards - Another one who had a long term injury, but has proved to be a huge player for us. He's played across the midfield for us, and always given us energy and willingness to get in the opposition box. Let's hope we see more of him because I don't think we've seen the best of him yet.

Karl Henry - Since losing his captaincy, has been rejuvenated. Put in some top, top performances and his late interceptions in the edge of our own area have become something of a trademark move of his lately.

Jamie O'Hara - Has generally been one of our better players, but from someone who is supposed to be a marquee player, we do need that bit extra from him. His quality does show, and I reckon once he gets fit again we'll see the O'Hara we saw when we first signed him.

Fletcher - our head boy

Nenad Milijas - Has been in and out of the team but I think, aside from a couple of wobbly performances, he had done well when he has played. It's a waste of a quality player when we don't use him, and we've seen how good he can be in the last couple of games.

Matty Jarvis - England call up, both player of the year awards, another Premier League season. You could say Jarvo has had a good year, and yet we haven't always seen the best of him. Lately he's been on fire and if he keeps it up, England will come calling again.

Stephen Fletcher - The man who kept us up, and is doing his best again! 13 goals this calendar year, in limited appearances too. Now keeping Kevin Doyle out of the team, an impressive feat! His goal scoring record is insane, he is going to be a top, top player and I can't see us holding onto him for much longer.

Freshening things up

2011-12-19T16:16:00.000Z

If there's one thing I've noticed this season, is that everything seems stale. Here I take a look into what I think we need to do to freshen things up.

The playing staff

The obvious one is the players. Is our squad good enough? Does it have enough depth? We've been heavily linked with centre midfielders, and back up forwards. In a previous blog I mentioned Frimpong and Maynard (the former could well be on his way here in January) but what we really lack is out and out pace, all over the pitch. I think we need one most urgently at centre back, and a really explosive winger would be another position I'd look at.

Nedum Onuoha has been made available by Roberto Mancini, while looking for a speedy winger is a bit harder. We do have Kightly coming back, but I'm not sure him, Hammill or Hunt have the pace we need on the opposite wing to Jarvis. Albert Adomah of Bristol City is pretty rapid, very direct and positive. A foreign player may be the option, someone unheard of to give us something different.

The coaching staff

Crap pundit, good coach

When you look at our coaching background we have Terry Connor as assistant, at Mountain for the keepers and then Tony Daley for fitness. While lower numbers will create a tight-nit unit and a great spirit, I think we need some new ideas to help out. Is it possible that the players are bored, or lack motivation? Someone new, or a well respected face could help out big time. Someone like Sammy Lee, or Ray Wilkins are both coaches available with fantastic experience and great reputations as coaches.I still believe Mick has what it takes to take us forward, but I think he needs more help.

The System

In modern football, you don't get many teams nowadays who play 4-4-2, and get a huge amount of success from it. Even Manchester United have struggled lately and with the quality of their players, it shows that when you don't play it right, you give yourself problems. The two in the middle are key, and that's where we seem to be weakest. Karl Henry does a great job of tracking, battling and tackling but he's not the best on the ball, which is fine because it shouldn't be his job. We need two dynamic players in the middle, and our closest pair to that is Henry and O'Hara, both players who like to come deep to get the ball. They are two of our most important players, and we need to start using them better.

In my opinion, our best form has always come when we have gone with a more fluid 4-5-1/4-3-3 with two attacking wingers. The three in midfield give us enough to protect the back four and also give us impetus going forward.

Mick's biggest problem is, what do we do with Doyle and Fletcher then? Fletcher is too much of a goal machine to leave out and Doyle, when in form, is superman. The closest to a solution Mick has come to has been at Old Trafford when he shifted Doyle out wide. Play him and Jarvis as more forwards than wide midfielders and it gives us the pace and power we often lack when we attack.

I would suggest a midfield and attack of this:

Edwards
Henry
O'Hara

Doyle
Fletcher
Jarvis

Man United v Wolves preview

2011-12-09T15:38:00.001Z

I'm pretty sure everyone is thinking the same thing about tomorrow's game.

Backlash.

United crash out of the Champions League, facing Channel 5 football and missing Vidic and Young through injury. It's all set up for them to play Wolves at home in their next game. Like the Chelsea game a couple of weeks ago, I'm expecting a beating.

Mick faces a few interesting dilemmas, good ones I bet he would call them. First of all, Karl Henry returns from suspension. I think we missed him last week, our vulnerability to the counter attack showing it. While we were certainly a bit more positive on the ball, Karl gives us that security and cover for the back.

Secondly, no Jody Craddock. A shame because he put in a strong performances and with a few more games may have been at his best. It would look like Roger Johnson will be the direct replacement, but a fit again Richard Stearman may be a good option. At Old Trafford last year Stearman was fantastic at centre back and right now I'd take him over 'RoJo' in his current form. Finally, our other wide midfielder. Stephen Hunt looked lacking in confidence, and I can't see him starting tomorrow. Adam Hammill impressed when he came on last Sunday and played a part in the winning goal but I see us going with Dave Edwards on the right side of midfield. I think Mick is desperate for Edwards to get a run of games under his belt so that we can finally see him at his best.

I think we will go for this side:

Thanks for that goal george, but I hope you don't start

Hennessey

Zubar
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Edwards
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Doyle
Fletcher

It's quite dangerous to play 4-4-2 at Old Trafford, but at least it's a bit positive and we shouldn't see us just defending the whole game. Man United will be eager to bounce back so I only see this going one way. 3-0 United.

January Targets

2011-12-07T09:37:00.001Z

Over the last couple of seasons the most we have spent is £500k in the January transfer windows, so it's silly to expect us to go out and splash the cash. There are however young players available who need games and would be a good addition to our squad. The loan signing of Jamie O'Hara should encourage the three Ms to look for more of that type. The following are players who I think we either should, or are trying to bring in.

Emmanuel Frimpong: A couple of weeks ago a friend told me we had enquired about this guy, and then a few days ago said it was a done deal. The papers seem to have picked up on it and now it's everywhere. he would be a certainty to be a crowd favourite with his all action style. He's strong in the tackle, fast and good on the ball like any Arsenal player would be.

Nedum Onuoha: I quite wanted us to go for him in the summer. It's a real waste of a good player for him to be rotting in the reserves at City. He's limited to the odd League cup appearance, he would surely be interested in a move to us. Whether it's on loan or a permanent signing, he's exactly what we need. Can play right back or centre back, a good defender and rapid.

Nicky Maynard: This is a very unlikely one, seeing as it's unlikely we'd pay 4-5 million for another forward or that he'd want to come and be back up (at first). I've watched him a few times and he's always looked class. Skillful and an eye for goal. A very good goalscoring record for a team that has struggled in the Championship over the past few years.

Michael Kightly back from his loan spell: Okay, not a signing but someone who should be back in a Wolves shirt when his loan spell at Watford ends. Hornets fans have been impressed, raving about him at times and saying he'll be back playing Premier League football soon. I'm glad to hear it, and with a run of games over the next few weeks he should be ready for first team action at Molineux. A fit and firing Michael Kightly would be a real bonus.

Got any suggestions? Think my targets are a load of rubbish? Comment below with who you think we should be going for next month!

Missing Mr.Reliable

2011-11-30T14:00:00.001Z

Looking at the Wolves 2011 calender, it reminded me that we were missing an important first team member. Our Mr.Reliable, our most consistent player over the last few years when he has played.

While I appreciate the efforts of Richard Stearman and Ronald Zubar at right back, they just don't come close to Kevin Foley. His calmness, footballing ability and defensive capabilites are something we have missed at the back. Only Stephen Ward has really shown these attributes this season consistently, and with Foley on the opposite flank it would make our defence seem a lot safer.

Not to forget his efforts in midfield. In our first season he had the role of right midfielder, giving protection in front of Zubar and helping us on our way to survival. The next he got more time in his strongest position, getting a good run of games at right back and shining. When Karl Henry got injured, he also showed what a capable defensive midfielder he is.

Injury has stopped him from playing a part this season, when we have really missed him. In our five game losing streak our team looked devoid of confidence and lacking a calm head at the back. Foley gives us that. His composure on the ball would give us a nice balance with Stephen Ward on the opposite flank and Roger Johnson and Christophe Berra in the middle. Two stoppers, two players.

He's a few reserve games off full match fitness but personally, I can't wait for Mr. Reliable/Consistency to come back into the side.

Chelsea v Wolves preview

2011-11-25T09:44:00.001Z

When John Terry says you are one of the best teams they've played this season, you know you've done alright.

Unfortunately that means Terry, and Chelsea, will certainly not be underestimating us.

AVB prays Stephen Ward will be rested

This is a huge game for Andre Villas-Boas, anything less than a home win and well, I think he will get the sack. Luckily for him, they are playing the right team...

Except! Maybe, just maybe Mick will remember our performance last year at Stamford Bridge, and try to replicate that this time against a more fragile Chelsea? That game is one of my favourites, we may have lost the game two nil but we gave them a right scare and also played some brilliant football at the same time.

With O'Hara and Hunt suspended it means we have to make changes and who knows, they could be blessings in disguise. Hunt hasn't played particularly well for a while now, whereas O'Hara has been caught between two positions. It all depends on the formation we play. I think Mick may go with 4-4-2, and bring Fletcher in which is a good thing, but also leaves us likely to be overrun in midfield. Then again, it worked for Liverpool last weekend.

You'd expect Matt Jarvis to come in at left midfield. I was surprised he didn't start last weekend, we badly needed his pace and with him likely to come up against Ivanovic you'd expect him to cause a few problems. In the middle, it's a question of who goes with Karl Henry? Nenad Milijas you'd think lacks the mobility, though we have seen some top performances now and then from him there. Adlene Guedioura may give us the legs there, but does he have the discipline? Tough decisions.

It all looks set for Ronald Zubar to come in at right back. Assuming he's fully fit, he could be a real bonus for us. We've lacked his enthusiasm lately and his pace and power is something we lack at the back. If he's not, Matt Doherty would be the second in line. He definitely looks like a future first choice right back for us, yes he had some problems against City in the cup but he was left isolated out there by Doyle.

Fletch could return

Expected line up:

Hennessey

Zubar
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Edwards
Henry
Milijas
Jarvis

Doyle
Fletcher

Like Everton last week, we have a good chance to frustrate the home crowd and put their players under even more pressure than they are under right now. If we try and keep the ball, and work it forward we may have a slight chance but sit back and give them the confidence to attack us and I fear for the worst.

I'll go for a 3-0 defeat, us containing them but getting tired and conceding a couple of late goals.

Talking sense

2011-11-23T13:04:00.001Z

"We will have to go down there and try and keep the ball and there's no point just punting it forward because if we do we'll end up chasing it for long periods.
"Last season I think we actually had about 50-50 possession down there and had a lot of shots on goal. We need to go there and try and pass the ball and keep it because if we don't, with their quality, we'll find it difficult to get it back.

This quote comes from an unlikely source, a man who has had his grapples in the box with strikers and head butted a post, but Christophe Berra is talking a lot of sense here!

Tactical genius

When we went to Chelsea last year, it was the first time we had really tried the possession game. We were patient and it worked a treat. We gave Chelsea a scare and could've come out of the game with something.

If we were to do that this time against a low confidence Chelsea side then who knows what could happen.

With Berra saying the above, you have to wonder why we don't go into games with this plan more often. Our best performances and results have generally come from us keeping the ball and playing to our strengths, it's my biggest frustration with Wolves. We have players like Nenad Milijas, who oozes class on the ball and Matt Jarvis, when gives the right service can give any full back a run for their money.

If results were good with the style Mick seems to want us to play at the moment, you could argue a point for saying they are playing well, or that we should stick with it but we're not, it's hard to watch and we in very poor form.

Hopefully Mick remembers that game at Stamford Bridge, or Old Trafford or against Blackpool at home because they were some great performances that we should be trying to emulate.

Everton 2 Wolves 1

2011-11-20T09:31:00.001Z

While I remain one of the most optimistic Wolves fans around, even I am now having my doubts.

The display against Everton was one of the most negative performances I have seen by a McCarthy team. Everton were nervous, playing without confidence but we basically handed them the three points.

The inclusion of Milijas made me think we were going to try to play football, with Edwards and Hunt out wide it seemed the focus would be working it through the middle. I felt sorry for Nenad out there as he seemed the only one trying to keep hold of the ball, but with so little movement he was restricted to giving it back to a defender.

When our best attacking threat is our left back, I think you need to recognise something is wrong. The question is, will Mick see this? We've had ten games of it. No urgency, no movement and no pace at all. Stephen Ward wa superb again, and with the efforts of Wayne Hennessey and Christophe Berra, the only thing looking likely to keep us above the bottom three. Once again he showed his adaptability by being a better right back than Richard Stearman.

Our wide men were anonymous, offered no support and the result of that was Doyle losing it every time he gets it. In Doyle we have a fantastic footballer, but when he is so isolated he looks average. Another player I feel sorry for out there.

And when Fletcher was finally brought on, we suddenly had another option and found small amounts of space. Two minutes into his arrival we had our first shot on goal, it was a rubbish shot but unlike the rest of the team he looked like he wanted to score.

We would have been lucky to get nil, let alone one.

Hennessey - 8

Stearman - 6
Johnson - 7
Berra - 8
Ward - 7

Edwards - 5
Henry - 7
Milijas - 6
O'Hara - 6
Hunt - 5

Doyle - 6

The most worrying thing is that this time last season we were on a very similar run, but we remained upbeat because of the way we were approaching games. There is no reason this time round to suggest our form is going to change.

Everton v Wolves preview

2011-11-18T13:05:00.001Z

Wolves go to Goodison Park hoping to kick on after the win against Wigan last time out.

And I feel strangely confident about it.

Everton are a strong side, no doubt about it, and have some fantastic Premier League footballers, but it hasn't clicked for them this season. They lie in 17th, four places below us.

Then again, this may be a good time for them to get going. We have a habit of doing that don't we?

Despite the return to full fitness of Steven Fletcher, I'd expect us to continue with 4-5-1. 'Fletch' is probably our best bet for a goal, but you can't drop Kevin Doyle and we need the extra man in midfield. He's a great option to have on the bench anyway.

Hopefully we will see Matt Jarvis back to his best. He's been inconsistent recently, but his performance against Wigan suggests he is confident and ready to stake a claim for another England call up. When he's playing well there isn't a full back in the league who can stop him, and he's a huge asset to the club.

Here is the team I expect us to go with:

Hennessey

Stearman
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Hunt
Edwards
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Doyle

I'm going to go with a well earned one all draw, with Edwards getting the goal. If we get in their faces from the start and frustrate the home crowd early on its anyone's game.

Wolves 3 Wigan 1

2011-11-08T19:06:00.001Z

It was a case of job done at Molineux on Sunday.

It didn't matter how, but we simply had to win. It was nervy and painfully low on quality but we'll take that for those three precious points that lift us to 13th in the table.

Wigan themselves had to win, and it was the battle of two teams low on confidence and we came out on top. We can put the myth that we always lose to the lower placed teams to bed for now, I reckon.

The most encouraging thing to come from the game was the spine of our team. Right through the middle we had good performances. Wayne Hennessey made some good saves, important ones while Roger Johnson and Christophe Berra returned to their early season form. Karl Henry was as solid as ever, it was brilliant to see him make the second goal with a strong positive run.

Jamie O'Hara and Kevin Doyle were the most important parts though. They were are two players with real quality, who we could rely on to make something happen and that's how the first goal came about. it was genius from Doyle, and O'Hara got in the position's he'd been getting in for the last three or four games to put the pull back away.

Hennessey - 7

Stearman - 6
Johnson - 7
Berra - 8
Ward - 6

Guedioura - 5
Edwards - 7
Henry - 7
O'Hara - 8
Hunt - 7

Doyle - 8

Subs - Jarvis - 7, Milijas - 6.

We've got a two week break to prepare for a trip to Goodison Park. It's a decent chance to get some very good points away, how good would it look if we got something there after the horrible run we've just experienced?

Manchester City v Wolves preview

2011-10-28T10:16:00.001+01:00

If Wolves come away with anything less than a beating come 5pm on Saturday, I think we can all feel grateful. But against a ruthless Manchester City team, it's going to be one hell of a hard task.

The last time we came to what is now the 'Etihad' Stadium, we were involved in a fantastic football match. We went one nil up, City raced into a four one lead and then we scared the life out of them, coming back to four three with rare Geoffrey Mujangi Bia and Stephen Mouyokolo cameo performances to go with it.

There's a similarity to that game and the cup tie on Wednesday. It was the spell where every time City attacked, they seemed to score. They did that for three minutes forty two seconds a couple of days ago, and when we last went to City Tevez and co. turned it on and scored three in fifteen minutes. Mainly, it's because they have fantastic footballers who can at will tear us apart, but I also feel it's down to lack of concentration on our part. Once the first one goes in, that really breaks us down, westop doing what we were doing so well before that.

It's hard to predict what team Mick will pick and what formation we will go with. Will he make changes at the back? Will he bring in those that impressed in the cup, like Nenad Milijas, Adlene Guedioura, Stephen Hunt and even Sam Vokes? Will he stick with 4-4-2, or put an extra man in the midfield so that we don't get over run. I'm hoping Mick goes with that latter, because it's painful to watch when we clearly need some one else there, like last Saturday.

If there's one player I want in the side, it's Nenad Milijas. It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of the Serbian and I think he deserves a chance in his proper position this time. Against Albion he played further forward, and had less effect than when he came on against Swansea and played the deep lying role. It also lets Jamie O'Hara play as the attacking midfielder and give him the freedom he needs. He's scored two good goals since playing there in the last two games.

I can see Mick going with this:

We need a performance from Johnson at the back, urgently

Hennessey

Stearman
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Henry
Milijas

Jarvis
O'Hara
Hunt

Doyle

I'd be happy with that, and think it gives us our best chance against this scary City team.

Hopefully we can gives them a scare ourselves, and show that this bad run of form is just a (bad) blip. Come on you Wolves.

Missing: £4m Premier League defender

2011-10-25T09:15:00.002+01:00

After two clean sheets in the first three games it finally looked like we had sorted our defence. We had a new leader ready to push us on up the table. For those first few games, I really enjoyed watching (and hearing!) him. Since then, Roger Johnson has been barely recognisable.

He looks a shadow of the defender that has been tipped for an England call up over the past year, looking clueless and shot of the confidence he brought to the defence when he arrived.

And while I was watching our game on Saturday I thought 'who is the real captain here' as I watched Karl Henry barking out orders and getting information of Mick when substitutions were made.

Come on Roger, sort it out

Karl was the only one who you can say had a decent game, never hiding, making incisive passes and making some excellent challenges at the back. In fact, you could say he has played quite well all season, which is why it seems crazy that he is the crowd's target for abuse often.

Like the team, Roger was much better in the latter stages of the Swansea game. He started taking a bit of responsibility at the back. It didn't come long after the ridiculous 'One Jody Craddock' chant, maybe he responds to that kind of thing?

There's no way he will be dropped for our league game at City, and he will also remain as captain. He does have some serious thinking to do until then, and let's hope for our sake that he has sorted himself out by the time we kick off at the Etihad Stadium.

Will Mick ring in the changes?

2011-10-21T15:17:00.000+01:00

As usual, plenty of focus will be on Mick McCarthy's team selection for the lunchtime kick off tomorrow.

The way we set up will be huge against a Swansea side who will set out to frustrate by keeping the ball. It's the type of game where Wolves fans will start to lose their patience very quickly.

I see Mick going with 4-5-1 like last week but maybe with different personnel.

Right Back

While Richard Stearman has had a couple of decent performances at right back, I think his place may be under threat. While Zubar and Foley may be out of the game, Matt Doherty was excellent on his debut and has impressed in the reserves. It is the young Irishman's natural position, and this would be an great opportunity for him to break into the side.

Drop O'Hara?

It's clear that Jamie O'Hara has underperformed lately, and that he could do with a break. Dropping him could give him the kick up the arse he needs to bring him back to the form we know he is capable of. I can see Dave Edwards being brought into the side, this is the type of game he excels in. He is a nuisance to the other team, and adds a goal threat.

Outwide

Neither of our wingers had a particularly great game last week, so could both easily be dropped. We could do with the fight, and dead ball ability Stephen Hunt adds so I can see Matty Jarvis given a rest. He looks short on confidence, and like O'Hara maybe being dropped could do him some good.

Here's the team I think we might go with:

Hennessey

Doherty
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Hammill
Henry
Edwards
Milijas
Hunt

Doyle

An early goal would do a world of good, it would get the fans on the players side and maybe we might see the confidence we saw in the first few games. We desperately need a win, so I'm going with 2-1 to Wolves.

One of three

2011-10-14T20:03:00.002+01:00

After hearing that Stephen Fletcher was a doubt for the game on Sunday the first thing that came to mind was, 'It's got to be 4-5-1'. In fact as important as Fletcher is for us it could be a blessing in disguise, just for this game.

This looks like it is going to be a tight game with both sides desperate to avoid defeat to their closest rivals. With Peter Odemwingie also a doubt it means Albion are also more likely to pack the midfield. That's where the game will be won, and if we make a similar mistake to the one against QPR (in terms of selection and formation) the witch hunt will definitely be out for Mick.

But who comes in? Well for me it is one of a possible three.

Dave Edwards, Nenad Milijas and Adlene Guedioura.

All have their strengths and weaknesses, but it's a tough trio to decide from.

While Edwards brings enthusiasm and forward runs, he also lacks the quality. Milijas brings composure and keeps possesion but perhaps lacks the mobility and aggression for a derby like this. Adlene Guedioura (extremely impressive against Newcastle when he came on) has the grit, determination and skill yet the problem with him is discipline and the fear that he will do something reckless or stupid.

It's a tough choice, assuming Mick goes with a five man midfield.

What would you go with?

Four in a row: Wolves 1 Newcastle 2

2011-10-01T18:03:00.002+01:00

A fourth consecutive defeat leaves Wolves sliding towards the bottom of the table.

Although we conceded two very silly goals, overall I thought we actually played pretty well. The first goal is hard to tell who should be stopping it, but for the second there was a number of errors that lead to it. O'Hara, Henry and Johnson all played their part. Jamie O'Hara was way to casual on the edge of the area, giving away possession while Karl Henry, who had twice recovered the ball brilliantly, played the ball to Stephen Hunt who was looking the over way. To cap it off, Roger Johnson is turned inside out by Gutierrez who then finishes. A lot for Mick to work on in that area.

Attacking wise, we were threatening but wasteful. 25 attempts on goal, one scored. There are a number of factors for that. Firstly, we were miscuing our headers, volleys and shots. Doyle dragged a couple wide, Fletcher and Johnson both had very good opportunities and O'Hara had several shots wide and blocked. Secondly the Newcastle defenders and keeper were excellent. All day long they threw themselves in front of the ball, while Tim Krul had an unbelievable game in goal.

Finally, the major talking point, the officials. I'm at loss to how Mark Halsey thinks Steven Taylor's challenge on O'Hara is outside the area. It was clearly inside, and to make it worse minutes later we were denied once again when Jarvis was tripped. And then the disallowed goal. It had never, ever, entered my mind that when Jarvis brilliantly headed Hammill's cross back into the six yard box that it had gone out of play. It's truly unbelievable. How can the referee be sure that it has gone out, if it hasn't? Overall, not just the the key decisions, the officials were poor.

Hennessey - 6

Stearman - 6
Johnson - 6
Berra - 6
Ward - 7

Hunt - 5
Henry - 6
O'Hara - 6
Jarvis - 6

Doyle - 7
Fletcher - 7

Subs: Guedioura - 8, Hammill - 7

It will be very interesting to see how we line up next week due to the impressive performances of both our subs. Adlene Guedioura in particular was excellent, playing well next to Jamie O'Hara in midfield. He won the ball, took players on and fed the ball into our attackers. He must be pushing for a start, the only question is who does he replace? We have seen him play well in the middle in a 4-5-1, but that would mean breaking up the Doyle-Fletcher partnership. In a 4-4-2, it seems unlikely that he would drop Karl Henry who had a decent game today.

Whatever we go with, we desperately need a result in a tough game at our nearest rivals.

Wolves v Newcastle Preview

2011-09-30T18:37:00.001+01:00

With three defeats on the bounce, it's vital that Wolves get a positive result tomorrow against Newcastle.

A fourth consecutive defeat and even the most optimistic supporters, like myself, will start to worry and wonder where we are going.

Newcastle have surprised most of the critics so far this season, remaining unbeaten so far and lying in fourth place. With Hatem Ben Arfa just regaining match fitness, it's looking bright for Alan Pardew's men.

Back to Wolves, who desperately need a good start to the game. If we play like we did in the second half last week at Anfield and take our chances then we could get a decent result as surely Newcastle are due a defeat soon?

Doherty could make his first league start

With 4-5-1 not having the desired effect last week in the first half, I'm fairly sure we will go with two up top this time. Fletcher is back fit, and we will be hoping for a good performance from Kevin Doyle after recently signing a new contract. He has had a poor start to the season by his standards, hopefully he can now kick on and get back to his best.

The only other possible change to the starting line up could be the youngster Matt Doherty replacing Richard Stearman, who is doubtful for the game. It is brilliant to see a young player get a chance, even though it came through injury. Whenever he has played in the first team, he has looked confident and assured.

Our possible line up:

Kevin Doyle is due a performance

Hennessey

Doherty
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Hunt
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Doyle
Fletcher

With that line up, I'm confident. There's goals in that team, and we are due a couple or more. I'm going with 2-1 to Wolves.

Four or Five?

2011-09-23T18:24:00.001+01:00

That's probably the most important question of the week. Will Mick go with four in midfield again, or five?

While the clues lead to us switching to 4-5-1, it's not too unlikely Wolves could line up with two forwards. Steven Fletcher has returned to training, and is certainly an option. Playing one striker, would leave us with a anothher real quality one on the bench.

Looking at our midweek confidence booster against Millwall, it looks as if Mick was planning to go with 4-5-1. Dave Edwards, Nenad Milijas and Adlene Guedioura all impressed in the middle and while not all of them will start, you'd expect at least one of them to.

Nenad Milijas has that quality on the ball that we have looked lacking in recently, and is a fantastic player to have when you are keeping the ball. However, this might not be the game for him as an away game on a big pitch may not suit him, especially at Liverpool.

Dave Edwards has excelled in the second striker role at times behind Doyle. He was the match winner against Manchester City last season, and when put in that position again versus Blackpool he was once again a handful. He played just 45 minutes last week, is that a pointer to whether he will start or is it that he is just regaining fitness?

The last man of the three is the one I expect to see start. From various reports, it was as if Adlene Guedioura ran the game on Wednesday. He contributed to at least two goals, the second a fantastic strike from him. With him finally looking fit, will we see the Guedioura we saw on his home debut against Tottenham a year and a half ago?

That's all if we play 4-5-1, and if we do this is how I see the team:

Hennessey

Stearman
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Hammill
Guedioura
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Doyle

Another face who hasn't seen much first team football is Adam Hammill. He will be raring to go, especially against his old club and I am excited to see what he can offer.

With the team above, I think it gives us a decent chance of getting something against a Liverpool side still stinging from a four nil defeat at White Hart Lane. They scraped through to the next round of the cup against Brighton also, with several key players featuring. I think it will be close. 2-1 to Liverpool, which in fairness isn't a bad result. Of course, I;m hoping for a performance similar to last years at Anfield.

Wolves 0 QPR 3

2011-09-17T20:38:00.000+01:00

What is their to say about today's performance. Well, a lot.

The first ten minutes were the most torturous, agonizing and painful of watching Wolves, and the following 80 plus weren't much better either.

Why after such a good start, when we should still be filled with confidence, did we put in a performance as abject and lifeless as that?

First you have to look at our tactics. Although QPR are a team full of new players, they had a lot of good ones and were too much for us today. Our four man midfield was no match for the five QPR put out. Henry and O'Hara were left stranded, while Jarvis looks a shadow of his usual self and nothing went right for Kightly. With the injury of Steven Fletcher, surely it was obvious that we could bring in a midfielder like Nenad Milijas to help us keep possession. Not just that, but taking Stephen Ward out of the defence significantly weakened our defence in that first half.

Secondly, the players themselves. The defence was nowhere near as good as in the previous four games. Roger Johnson was quiet, Stearman was clumsy and Elokobi was hopeless. Christophe Berra was the best of a bad bunch, he was solid for most of the game. Most worryingly for me, is we look clueless going forward. Our wingers, for whatever reason fell short of the standard needed and Kevin Doyle was anonymous. After scoring against Fulham, I was sure he would kick on but he just hasn't been himself.

Maybe I am taking away too much from Neil Warnock's men though. They zipped the ball about brilliantly, pulling us apart and finding space with ease. If they play like that for more or less every game, they shouldn't have too many problems this season.

Hennessey - 7

Stearman - 5
Johnson - 5
Berra - 6
Elokobi - 4

Kightly - 6
Henry - 6
O'Hara - 5
Jarvis - 5

Doyle - 5
Ward - 7

Subs: Guedioura - 4, Vokes - 6, Hunt - 5

It doesn't get any easier next week, with a trip to Anfield looming (after the cup game v Millwall) but the last timewe went there we had come off the back of a poor performance at home.

Wolves 0 Spurs 2

2011-09-11T13:09:00.000+01:00

It's hard to be disappointed after a flying start to the season, but there is still a feeling that we could have got something from yesterday's game.

For most of the game we competed well, kept possession and if anything looked the better side. This however, as we all know by now, is a cruel league and two moments of quality knocked the stuffing out of us.

With the chances we had we perhaps could have taken more from the game, maybe even three points. It wasn't to be, and the only noticeable difference between the two sides was the cutting edge Spurs had in the final third. Too many times we would build our way up to the edge of the area and look a bit clueless. Certainly something to work on.

Michael Kightly was handed his first league start of the season. I had my worries when I saw his name in the line up, but he was a lot fitter than I expected and only seems to be a couple of games away from having the sharpness required. It was an encouraging display from him.

In the middle of midfield, Karl Henry and Jamie O'Hara can be fairly pleased with their performances overall. At times, both were sloppy and gave away the ball in dangerous areas but they have the makings of a strong partnership and there were more signs of it today. How fantastic would it have been if Henry's dribble and shot had resulted in a goal?

Richard Stearman is growing with confidence in every game. Many would consider him our weak spot in the team yet he was our strongest performer today. He never looked troubled, and handled Gareth Bale well as did Stephen Ward.

Hennesey - 7

Stearman - 8
Johnson - 7
Berra - 7
Ward - 7

Kightly - 7
O'Hara - 7
Henry - 7
Hunt - 7

Doyle - 7
Fletcher - 7

We have a good opportunity next week to bounce back against QPR, another home game. It could be a good test of how much we have improved, and to see how we handle the games against the teams we would expect to beat.

Wolves v Tottenham preview

2011-09-09T19:36:00.001+01:00

This international break felt like the longest there has been, our game v Villa seems like it was ages ago!

Wolves face a confidence drained Tottenham side, with an unhappy Luka Modric and zero points on the board. We know what that means then!

Or do we? It feels like this year we are ready to take advantage of other team's bad luck or poor form.

But even an understrength or less confident Spurs team is still a dangerous one. Gareth Bale is one of the world's best wingers, and he now has a proper target man for his crosses. For all his height, Peter Crouch is not as good in the air as Emmanuel Adebayor and Wolves will have to be wary of him.

As much as Mick claims Jamie O'Hara has nothing to prove, I'm sure Jamie will want to stick a goal or two past his old team. He may feel that he was never given a chance under Harry Redknapp, which I think is an advantage for us. It's going to be vital that him and Karl Henry are at the top of their game.

It's very likely that we will go with the same team for the fourth game running. I'm not sure when the last time that happened, but for me it is a good thing and if we can resist altering the side then we can go from strength to strength.

Hennessey

Stearman
Johnson
Berra
Ward

Hunt
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Fletcher
Doyle

We've had some entertaining games against Spurs in the last couple of years, I expect this to be similar. We will try not to open the game up, be patient and careful. I think if we can get plenty of crosses in, then we have a chance as that is where Tottenham have had problems so far this season.

Post Hoc, Ergo, Propter Hoc‏

2011-08-30T16:00:00.000+01:00

Once again, here is Phil Chell with another article for the blog.

For anyone reading this that knows me you will know that my favourite tv program of all time is The West Wing. Now, forgive me for saying that I don't believe the average Wolves fan will know what it is but be that as it may and truer words have never been spoken. The American political system isn't something that appeals to many.

There is an episode when the amiable, likeable and folksy President Bartlett played brilliantly by Martin Sheen, comes out with the saying 'Post Hoc, Ergo, Propter Hoc'. This is Latin and means 'after, therefore, because of it'. Roughly put in lamens terms it means one thing leads to another. However I don't always agree with it.

Case in point; our current league position. As I write this we sit 5th which is our lowest position this season. We have topped the table and held Champions League positions. We have 7 points from 3 games, and are unbeaten. Now even the most optimistic Wolves fan would see this as a good yet somewhat fortuitous start and we will soon find ourselves in the bottom half. Or 'after our little purple patch we will lose key players to injury and we'll slip down the league as usual'. After, therefore, because of it.

Well I don't think so.

I think our squad at the moment is as good as, or even better than teams like Fulham, Bolton, Stoke and Albion all of whom I'd class as a mid table teams.

Last year we didn't really have a settled line up. This year the same team has started the 3 league games. Also, when Mick made 11 changes for the league cup game, there were 4 or 5 players who were in our best line up last year. I agree that injuries could be a problem, especially if we lose either Johnson, Jarvis, Doyle or Fletcher but I think we have enough strength on depth to survive this campaign easily.

But there are 35 games to go. In the words of President Bartlett 'what's next?'

Aston Villa 0 Wolves 0

2011-08-28T11:06:00.001+01:00

Well done Wolves. Another good away point that takes us to seven points from three games.

It was the type of performance we have lacked since returning to the Premier League. A tight game, where neither side looked like scoring. Last season we were a bit guilty of keeping the game open when maybe we shouldn't have. Against a pacy Villa team we did well to stop them from creating very little openings.

Credit for that goes to the manager. I was annoyed when Mick took Hunt and Jarvis off, for Elokobi and Foley but it was an excellent decision. After twenty minutes of pressure, we finally started to keep the ball better. Ward and Foley as the wide midfielders did that excellently.

Wayne Hennessey put in another confident, solid performance. He made a very good save from Gabby Agbonlahor after he breezed past Roger Johnson. He also made important punches from dangerous crosses, one in particular at the beginning of the game.

It's quite hard to believe, but our best player over the last three games has been our left back. Stephen Ward was assured at the back and intelligent going forward. In fact, I would go as far as saying he was our most dangerous player attacking wise!

It's a good sign that we didn't play particularly well and yet still managed to take a point away from home. In a situation like this last year, we may have crumbled under the pressure and lost the game by two or three goals.

Hennessey - 8

Stearman - 6
Johnson - 7
Berra - 7
Ward - 8

Hunt - 7
Henry - 7
O'Hara - 6
Jarvis - 6

Doyle - 6
Fletcher - 7

We have two home games coming up now, where we have been very strong in the last year or so. Can we maintain our unbeaten run going, it's a scary thought.

Aston Villa v Wolves preview

2011-08-26T13:04:00.002+01:00

Until last week, the best all round performance I could think of was Villa away last term.

If Wolves could replicate something like that performance, and the one against Fulham then this is a game we can look forward too.

When Alex McLeish was appointed as Aston Villa's manager, my immediate thought for them was a relegation battle. not only would he be coming from the enemy, but he would also bring a brand of negative football that any fan would find hard to sit through. So far though seems to have escaped criticism from the fans and they have had a pretty decent start, taking four out of a possible six points.

This is a good opportunity for Wolves to turn the fans against him, as anything less than three points in the eyes of Villa fans will be a bad result. If Wolves can frustrate Villa from the start, just like last time, the fans and then the players will start to get anxious.

We will need our defence to be strong once again, with the likes of Charles N'Zogbia, Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent all likely to start. That is a very quick, and skillful, attack to deal with. So far though, Roger Johnson has had a great impact on our defence, we look twice as solid. he will need to be at his best to give us a chance of getting a clean sheet.

I honestly can't see Mick changing the team from the last two games, I can't see a reason to either!

Hennessey

Stearman
Johnson
Berra
Ward
Hunt
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Doyle
Fletcher

It's going to be an interesting game. It's one we could definitely get something from, but a tough test for our team no doubt. I'm going for 1-1.

Wolves 2 Fulham 0

2011-08-22T23:38:00.000+01:00

What a perfect game.

Two goals, clean sheet and another assured performance.

Whether it is Survival Sunday, the fitness of Jamie O'Hara or installing Roger Johnson as captain, something has really given us that kick up the ass we needed to push upwards and onwards.

While I don't want to get ahead of myself, we really could have a season to remember. We now seem to be an accomplished Premier League side.

Our two wide men caused Fulham problems throughout the game. Stephen Hunt had the better of John Arne-Riise, and Matty Jarvis was quietly effective. He now has two assists and a goal to his name, and is in fine form. Surely another England call up is due?

Looking through our team, we have a great British and Irish spine, as good (if not better) as any team in the bottom half. If we can keep this as our spine: Hennesey-Johnson/Berra-O'Hara/Henry-Doyle/Fletcher and get as many games out of them as possible then we can't go far wrong.

Karl Henry looks a different player. He had Danny Murphy in his pocket. It was a great moment when he turned four or five times and Murphy, who was clearly affected by the crowd, couldn't get the ball off of him. Henry and O'Hara, look like they have enough about them to control the game in a 4-4-2, which makes life a lot easier.

I was glad to see Kevin Doyle find the back of the net too. After an early miss, it was good for him to a get a goal that he badly needed. Him and Fletcher with the right service will get goals, as well as them being two terrific footballers.

And then there is Stephen Ward. Another top class performance by the Irishman will continue to add to his growing reputation with the fans. His two blocks in quick succession were nothing short of heroic.

Hennesey - 8

Stearman - 7
Johnson - 7.5
Berra - 7.5
Ward - 8

Hunt - 8
O'Hara - 7.5
Henrty - 9
Jarvis - 8

Doyle - 7.5
Fletcher - 8

Villa up next in the league. A tough away match, but it was last time we played them!

The Don

2011-08-16T19:36:00.001+01:00

Here's another article by Phil Chell, on a (surely) soon to be new hero at Wolves.

Those of you who readmy first piece for this website about Michael Kightly will havenoticed that I tend to write with a certain flair or excitement. Thisis partly due to, being a creative person, the need to be inspired towrite something that I will be proud of due to my own high standards.Louie (the website’s editor) asked me fairly quickly after I’dwritten my first article to contribute another. I said I would but infew weeks or if he gave me something specific to write about. Thatwas about a week ago so I though, leading up to the opening game thatI’d wait and see if anything or anyone flicked my switches.

Someonedid; Big time.

Now, if you read anypaper over the last few weeks you will have been told that Wolvespaid anything from £4 million to £7 million for Roger Johnson(Wolves continuing their dignified transfer policy by not revealingfinancial details). Being very honest, I didn’t know that muchabout him. I remember him fouling someone against us last season atMolineux for what was a stonewall penalty that was never given.

So I went to my localpub to watch the game with around 20 other Wolves fans/friends. Thestart of the season is exciting at anytime but for some reason thisseason has got me almost salivating at the prospect of the littleround ball being kicked around by 22 over-paid men. I wasn’tdisappointed either. The first 15-20 minutes were a little edgy and,as is always the way with Wolves, it took the opposition to score tobring us to life. Once we equalised I always knew we’d end upwinning; call it arrogance or stupidity, either way I just knew. Butthat wasn’t what got me so excited. It was Johnson’s performancethat did.

First of all, I thinkMM making him captain was a great move of two accounts; first off itfrees up Henry who I still have mixed feelings about but second, ithas put the captaincy where I feel it needs to be in any footballteam, at the back.

The first thing thatgot me with Johnson was how vocal he was in terms of organisation atset pieces through to motivating everyone. He also read the game sowell, he was always where he needed to be and was never caught out ofposition. However, it was one particular piece of action that made merealise that we have a very special player.

It was around 22minutes in and it was 1-1. Blackburn attacked down the wing andplayed a short pass inside to Formica. Johnson read it beautifullyand took it of Blackburn and broke down the attack. That in its selfwas a great piece of defending. However, instead of clearing it upfield he did something I haven’t seen us do for a long time; hePLAYED his way out of defence, RAN 70 yards and passed it and finallywas in the box to attempt a header. We didn’t score obviously butthat move alone showed me something our defence hasn’t shown in along, long, time. Intelligence.

Intelligence to readthe move. Intelligence to play out instead of clearing. Intelligenceto fill in at the back while he went forward.

I know that it is earlydays and I shouldn’t get carried away. But I can’t help but thinkthat, yet again, Mick McCarthy’s initials actually do stand forMerlin the Magician.

Professional: Blackburn 1 Wolves 2

2011-08-13T20:14:00.000+01:00

Take one long hard look at the league table. Savour it, 'cause it ain't gonna get much better than that.

Wolves put in a strong, determined performance mixed in with moments of guile and quality. It was very much a professional, Premier League display that gives us reasons to be hopeful this year.

Overall you could say Wolves were 'good value' for their win as Matthew Le Tissier put it. At times we looked ragged but the defence came through the spells of pressure and while the goal we conceded was a poor one to let in, it was also quite unlucky.

There were several performances to pick out. Matthew Jarvis looks like he has been working hard on the training ground. He looks like a more considered player, still with the pace and trickery to take his man on as shown when he won our penalty.

While in my preview I said (the impressive) Roger Johnson could be the man to take us to the next level, Jamie O'Hara could be every bit as important. With a full pre-season behind him, he looks ready to kick on and his performance today convinced me he is the man to make 4-4-2 work. His all round game is perfect for it, breaking up playing and moving us forward quickly.

Our match winner, Stephen Ward had a solid game at left back. He never really looked troubled by Hoillet, and his goal was a stunning effort. Every year he improves and looks more and more a Premier League footballer. On the opposite side, Kevin Foley had a class game when he came on at half time for the injured Richard Stearman.

Hennessey - 7

Stearman - 6
Johnson - 7
Berra - 7
Ward - 8

Jarvis - 8
Henry - 7
O'Hara - 8
Hunt - 6

Fletcher - 7
Doyle - 7

Subs: Foley - 8, Elokobi - 6, Maierhofer (not enough time to judge)

This time last year we were saying similar things after an excellent performance against Stoke. This time, can we kick on from a good solid start and have a comfortable season. We;ll just have to wait and see.

Are you ready? Blackburn v Wolves preview

2011-08-12T15:59:00.003+01:00

Football is back!

Forget pre-season, that doesn't really count. We only have a day until we kick off a new Barclays' Premier League season and I'm getting terribly excited!

We go to Ewood Park hoping to end our poor run of results there and against Blackburn too. We are yet to win against them in six Premier League games, all records have to come to end at some point right?

With Roger Johnson in defence there is a cause for optimism and belief that we will be stronger at the back, that we can hold out when under pressure. Our new captain could be the man to take us to the next level.

It's less than three months since our last game, against tomorrow's opponents and we will hope that it will be an entirely different occasion. The first forty five minutes of that game where we looked down are ones we would like to put behind us, a good performance tomorrow will do that.

With Phil Jones sold and potentially no Christopher Samba and Ryan Nelsen, this is a good chance to get at a usually strong Blackburn defence. There will certainly be some shifting around at the back, which would be to our advantage. If we can press them high up, and get plenty of crosses in it may cause panic and create openings for Kevin Doyle (if fit) and Steven Fletcher.

The partnership of Doyle and Fletcher is something that will be interesting to see. If Doyle passes his fitness test, which it looks like he will, then both will almost certainly start. There were glimpses of an understanding last year in the few times they were both actually on the pitch and a strong partnership between the two could be one of the best outside the top six or seven.

Here is what I reckon Mick will go with:

Hennessey

Remember this goal?

Stearman
Johnson
Berra
Elokobi

Jarvis
Henry
O'Hara
Hunt

Doyle
Fletcher

There are question marks over Doyle and O'Hara's fitness. If we were to lose the two of them, I'd expect us to switch to a 451, with Nenad Milijas and possibly David Davis coming in. There may even be a place for Stephen Ward, who performed particularly well with Fletcher towards the end of the season.

If you are going to the game have a good time, (hopefully) enjoy the game and make sure you get behind the lads.

I'm going for a score draw, which I would take right now. 1-1

Team news, ask the oppo, prediction league

2011-08-11T16:37:00.002+01:00

About our opponents
Blackburn Rovers hold an excellent Premier League record a Wolves, undefeated in all our meetings. Ewood Park has proved to be somewhere we dread to play, conceding eleven in three games there and scoring just two. This is a huge season for Rovers. After sacking Sam Allardyce and bringing Steve Kean, form deteriorated and only a late surge kept them up. Kean is yet to win over Rovers fans, along with the Venky's, and needs to get off to a good start to keep the pressure off.

Form
Blackburn last six games: LLWDDW
Wolves last six games: DLDWWL
Blackburn at home last season: 7 wins, 7 draws, 5 defeats
Wolves away last season: 3 wins, 3 draws, 13 defeats

Last six games v each other: Blackburn 4 wins, 2 draws, Wolves 0 wins

What happened last time?
Blackburn came to Molineux on the final day of the season for 'Surival Sunday'. Blackburn stormed into a three nil lead at half time, practically securing their Premier League status. In the second half, they took their foot off the gas and Wolves pulled two back which would ultimately keep us up.

Team news
Steve Kean is hopeful that Chris Samba will be fit, but the defender remains a doubt.
Ryan Nelsen may not feature.
Kevin Doyle is rated at 70/30 to be fit.
Sylvan Ebanks-Blake could be ready in time, but Kightly is doubtful.
Adlene Guedioura and Dave Edwards are still missing with injury.

Ask the oppo
This week I was grateful to get answers from Blackburn fan Carsten

It's best we start off with 'survival sunday', what was your experience of it like?

Oh boy what a ride that was! Although Rovers were in danger of going down on the final day, I was always confident we would stay up. Well, almost. When I woke up on Survival Sunday my stomach hurt really bad, and I couldn't relax at all. Had a couple of sandwiches for breakfast, then a couple of beers, finally headed to the pub, where all Rovers fans in Oslo meet up whenever we can. I don't remember too much about the game, but what a relief it was when we got the first goal! From that point on I was sure we were safe. Little did I know that it would be one hell of a roller-coaster towards the end! Luckily we could all walk home safe, and meet again on the opening day of this season!

Manager's popularity out of 10?

Good question. I think on a scale form 1 to 10, it would be about 5. A lot of fans are still not convinced about the new owners, and certainly not Steve Kean because it is his first job as a manager. Personally I think he is doing a fairly good job, but it's still early days, and it's hard to really judge until the season is well under way. I think we played some decent football after he took charge, and the signings he has made seems to be good, although I never heard of any of them before they were linked with Rovers. I'm staying optimistic.

What should be the aim for Blackburn this season?

Top ten. A lot of experts think we are going down, but I can't see that happening with the squad we have got now. If Samba stays, and we can get one more striker in, I think we are looking ok. Hopefully also another centre half will be coming in this window, and then we should be able to push for a top ten finish.

Who should Wolves watch out for?Hoilett is obviously a threat, but I think also Rochina and Formica are ready to make an impact this season, and could surprise a few people.

What do you think of Wolves signings, and how do you think we will do this season?Looks solid. Roger Johnson and O'Hara if I'm right? Solid players with experience. Not too spectacular, but should make sure you are in a better position than last season.

Finally, prediction for the game?Gotta say we need to win at home, and get off to a good start, and I think the squad knows how important this is, if only to calm down some fans. Could well be the same result as when we last met. Rovers 3 - Wolves 2.

You can follow Carsten on twitter! @carsten86

Prediction League

The prediction league is back! Can Bob China keep his crown and or will he have it stolen off him?

Just post your predictions of the 9 Premier league fixtures as a comment to enter.

Blackburn v Wolves
Fulham v Aston Villa
Liverpool v Sunderland
QPR v Bolton
Wigan v Norwich
Newcastle v Arsenal
Stoke v Chelsea
Man Utd v West Brom
Man City v Swansea

It's five points for a correct result, ten for a correct scoreline and three for each correct scorer!

International Farce

2011-08-09T15:25:00.001+01:00

Once again, Wolves have been struck by injuries while one of our players is off on international duty. Blackburn and Fulham fans will be delighted to hear that Kevin Doyle has been ruled out for 2-3 weeks with injury, it's almost a disaster for us.

Mick had already aired his concerns about the timing of these friendlies and it's hard to disagree. What purpose do they serve? None of the games actually matter.

Weirdly, this is the third year running that we will start the season without Doyle. He missed the game v West Ham in the first year (due to injury from internationals I believe?!!) and the game against Stoke last year.

Now is the chance for someone else to step up, and grab their chances. The obvious candidate to replace Doyle is Sylvan Ebanks-Blake. He started last season in fine form, his performance against Stoke was brilliant and his partnership with Fletcher worked well. He seems most likely to be the man who comes in.

Unbelievably, the next man in line could be Stefan Maierhofer! 'The neck' was brought on with around 20-30 minutes left on Saturday, and put in a good performance. He looks desperate to impress and maybe he will return to the place where he scored his only Premier League goal?

Another alternative may be switching to 4-5-1. It has served us well in the past couple of years, and this could be a good opportunity for Nenad Milijas to stake his claim for a regular place in the team. I'm a big fan or the Serbian, it seems a great shame that such talent could be wasted on the bench. Changing formations may leave us thin on back u pin the midfield area, David Davis would be the only other centre midfielder left unless Mick thinks of Kevin Foley as a midfielder now

What do you make of Doyle's injury and who would you replace him with?

Wolves 2 Real Zaragoza 0

2011-08-07T20:15:00.002+01:00

Wolves finish their pre-season preparations with a comfortable two nil victory over Spanish side Real Zaragoza.

Overall, it was an impressive performance with some standout players.

In general, our midfield was strong and coped well with only two centre midfielders. Henry and O'Hara both did well, putting in strong tackles and linking up well. On the wings, we started with Jarvis and Hunt who were both contenders for man of the match. Hunt was his usual self, getting into the opposition and also putting in quality crossing. Jarvis, my man of the match looks a new player. He remains a player who can take on his marker, but he also showed intelligence on the ball and neat bits of skill. Another England call up is not far away.

Our new captain gave a good account of himself, displaying all the qualities we have lacked at the back for some time. Relentless talking (screaming), comfortable on the ball and excellent in the air. He looks a bargain at £4m (if that is true). Rather strangely, we went with Stearman at right back and Zubar at centre back. It gives me the idea that Stearman will start the season as first choice right back. He did well in the game, but looked uncomfortable at times, likewise with Zubar at centre half. At left back, Stephen Ward linked up excellently with Jarvis and Hunt down the left creating openings time and time again. When George Elokobi came on for him, he did a similar job and got our opener with a scrappy effort.

Kevin Doyle and Steven Fletcher are yet to strike a real partnership, but individually we saw what good players we have up front. Fletcher was a menace in the air, while Doyle won the ball back countless times and opened up the defence with his movement.

The team we started with, except with Berra in for Zubar and Elokobi in for Ward, is the team I expect to start at Ewood Park next week. It's a solid looking team, which may put us in good stead against a physical Blackburn side. It would be great for us to finally get a result there and start the season with a bang.

My favourite player: #3 Frank Munro

2011-08-05T15:03:00.000+01:00

Here's an article sent to me by Steve Gelder, on Frank Munro.

Not as easy as it sounds picking a favourite player as I enter my 47th year as a Wolves fan.

I was too young to appreciate the latter stages of players like Peter Broadbent or Ron Flowers but I was fortunate to witness the genius of Peter Knowles who left the game when I was 14: Knocker's antics on the pitch were pure theatre combined with flair, arrogance and a likeability factor (not dissimilar to George Best - my favourite all time player and a Wolves fan!). The 70's are where my fondest memories lie, not just because of the relative success achieved but it also accorded with a period in my life where I had the resources: time and money - to follow the Wolves all over the country. This was a fertile period to select a favourite player from (Kenny Hibbitt, Waggy, John Richards the Doog), all forward thinking players you notice. It is therefore surprising that my choice for favourite player is the mercurial Frank Munro.

Big Frank was signed as an inside forward from Aberdeen having scored a hat trick against Wolves in the final of a cup competition in America and was regarded as one of the most skillful players in that position. His move to centre back was genius, his ball control, dribbling ability and creative thinking, aligned to the natural qualities required of a 'brick wall stopper' created a player that was…….well……… like an e-type jaguar inside a Sherpa tank. People talk of Beckenbaur, or Rio Ferdinand as the ultimate footballing centre half but Frank was much better. Maybe not as lean……………………….ok…… numerous pints in the Mermaid would suggest “solid” but any player possessed with that type of audacious talent and confidence creates more time and space than most “run of the mills” This was even more impressive in a centre back position, we never knew what to expect (that included John Mcalle and Phil Parkes).

As indicated earlier, Frank was Scottish and liked a wee dram or two, he also possessed toughness as Peter Osgood found out once at Molineux. Frank had done his trademark dummy to let the ball run out for a goal kick, Ossie, so frustrated, pushed Frank into the moat that used to surround the pitch. It was about the centre circle when Frank caught up with Ossie and gave him one of those Glasgow kisses. Such was my appreciation for this entertainer I remember drawing, in black felt pen, a number 5 on the back of my Wolves shirt.

An old friend of mine: Robbie Kennedy Bennett has written a series of successful poems that reflect his Scottish ancestry and his love of the Black Country one of them relates to his visit to Broughty Ferry (birthplace of Frank Munro) and his own appreciation of this cultured wolves icon.

“Munro o’ Broughty Ferry,
He made the faithful merry,
Th’ Dons o’Pittodrie to Molineux
Francis, your service I am thanking you\"

Me too

If you would like to get involved, get in touch through the 'contact me' page.

FAO: Greg Halford

2011-08-04T13:12:00.004+01:00

‘It’s funny, Wolves wanted to get some money in from me to go and sign Roger Johnson, which is baffling.
‘Obviously he had an outstanding season with Birmingham last year but I still don’t see him as a better player than I am."

Shut it, you were crap you plank.

My favourite player: #2 Michael Kightly

2011-08-02T18:25:00.002+01:00

Here is the second of the 'my favourite player' series written by Phil Chell.

Firstoff, can I just say that I’ve always fancied myself as a modern-dayOscar Wilde, maybe even a 21^stCentury Thomas De Quincey but I never thought I’d commit mycerebral ramblings to paper (or Word 97,2001,et al as it turns out tobe in this modern world). Yet, here I am on a Friday night doing justso. You may be wondering what my semi-inebriated thoughts have to dowith the beautiful game or, more to the point, how I got involved?Well, here goes.

Iwas minding my own, watching TV with the wife whilst simultaneouslychecking my Twitter feed. I follow the guy that started this websiteand he tweeted asking for Wolves fans to write a piece about theirfavourite player. As soon as I saw this I had to reply. Now, most ofyou will be thinking I am about to write about Doyle, or Jarvis, orperhaps even Craddock based on his last season’s performance? Well,in a word, no. My musings are about Mr. Michael Kightly.

Iam the ripe old age of 31 so I am lucky/unlucky enough to rememberwatching Wolves when only 2 sides of the ground were open. My firstmatch was watching Bully stick 3 past a team beginning with ‘M’(Macclesfield or Mansfield, I can’t remember to be honest!) andwatching us go on to win 6-2. I was hooked. Instantly. One of themain reasons for this was the great man himself, Steve Bull.

Backin the day he had the chance to move several times to several clubswhich would have not only increased his personal wealth exponentiallybut also improved his chances with England. He decided to stay withus and is now a cult hero for these amongst many other reasons. Inthis day and age of 200k plus weekly wages, I fear we will never seethis type of commitment again, which leads me on to ‘Kights’.

Asyou will all know we signed him for the cost of a BMW and over thecourse of the next few seasons he began to pay us back 10 fold. Hisability in relation to his cost was amazing. He scored importantgoals, set more up than I can remember and also did what MM wanted;he ‘put a shift in’. For me, at that time he was the completeWolves player.

Atthe end of the 07/08 league when we finished 7^thand missed out on the play-offs by 1 goal, Kightly was hot property.He was at the peak of his career with Wolves and, as rumours had it,Sir Alex wanted him and was willing to give us a tidy 8million forhim. He could have gone and no one would have batted an eyelidbecause, in this modern game, it is expected that commitment is acommodity that players no longer have. Money talks, as the sayinggoes. But he stayed and the following season, helped us to win theChampionship.

Iremember going to watch us play Forrest towards the end of the seasonwith my Dad at the City Ground. I’d never actually been to an awaygame (shame on me) and I’ll never forget it. He scored the winnerin a 1-0 scrappy game. I’ll never forget my Dad turning to me andsaying ‘That’s, it, that’s the goal that’s won us theleague.’

Fastforward a few years and it’s a different story. He has been plaguedby injuries that have kept him frustratingly out of the side. I sayfrustratingly as I always thought he was a better player than Jarvis.Imagine how well we would have done with them both fit? Anyway, Idigress.

Wolveshad another player of similar promise that was injured for a verylong time. The difference was, as soon as he was fit, he ran out thedoor quicker than I thought was possible to Bolton. I don’t blamepayers that move on for whatever reason be it money, opportunity,etc. The reason I think us ‘normal folk’ would be pretty annoyedif we were told we couldn’t even apply for a new job which paidmore money if we were under contract with our current employerwouldn’t we? My point is this; players of this character are fewand far between and we should hope he stays at our wonderful club.

Onlytime will tell if Kightly will return to former glory, move on, or,God forbid have to retire early. I sincerely hope it’s the firstoption.

If you would like to get involved in the series, use the 'contact me' form to get in touch!

My favourite player: #1 Derek Dougan

2011-07-30T17:16:00.001+01:00

I've been looking for people to write about their favourite player, and I was fortunate enough to be sent this brilliant article about 'the Doog' by Steve Harris.

The statistics areimpressive but hardly scratch the surface. 648 games (307 for TheWolves), 280 goals (123 for The Wolves). 43 caps for NorthernIreland (8 goals).

The Doog, a name thatadorned many walls in Wolverhampton, played for six Football Leagueclubs, Pompey, Blackburn, Villa, Posh, Leicester and The Wolves. Nine years with the first 5 and his last nine with The Wolves.

He loved Wolverhamptonand Wolverhampton loved him!

He was a writer, factand fiction, a brilliant TV pundit (God, could MoTD do with himnow!), a fashion model, radio presenter and a remarkable chairman ofthe PFA. He brought an All Ireland Team together to play Brazil andpaid for it with his international career.

He was a greatfootballer but so, so much more and that is why we loved him.

I support The Wolvesbecause, in 1965, my Dad took me to see a game at Southampton. Hewanted me to support the local side that had started well in Division2. The famous Wolves were in town, having just been relegated, sothe old Dell was packed. I was never good at doing what I was toldso I chose The Wolves! We scored first, lost 9-3 and that was that. (A few years back I was at Molineux for the 0-6 loss to Saints and,for a week, had my Wolves supporting career bookended by two 6 goaldefeats to the same team! Unique??). Worse, my brother DOES supportSaints!

The Doog joined for thelast 11 games the next season, scored a hat-trick against Hull Cityon debut (what else?), 6 more and The Wolves were back in Division 1.

Games for me, over thenext 9 years, were few and far between. Parents abroad, school inSussex, the odd away game in London was the best I could do. I usedto wait for Wolves to be playing a London side because then theywould be on The Big Match on LWT on a Sunday afternoon.

The Doog wasflamboyant, communicated with the crowd and, as I can prove, was akind, thoughtful man. I plagued him for signed pictures to put inhis books. He always responded and, when I was exiled to the USA inmy teen years’ holidays, he sent me the Wolves fixture list as soonas it was published with a covering letter without me asking! Imagine that today!!

In October 1969 Dooggot sent off for the second time in the season for alleged abuse of alinesman. It provoked a near riot and they threw the book at him. An 8 week ban was the punishment despite that fact that he hadwitnesses, including 2 from opponents Everton, and the linesman hadnone. The authorities didn’t like people who challenged them butthe fans did. The Doog had a personal hearing and many fanstravelled to London just to sit outside it. People boycotted gamesuntil his return and a 9 year old boy who had never been to a gamewas reported as being inconsolable (no, it wasn’t me!)

1972 was O Level yearand my granddad was so worried about me that he wrote me a longletter. He said that he was concerned that “Derek Dougan and allthat that name represents” was taking up all of my time and I wouldfail everything. He wasn’t wrong! I almost did.

In truth I saw somegreat games, we always seemed to win or draw 2-2 at Chelsea, but Inever saw a game live where Doog was at his best.

Just four stand out andthe first and biggest was the 1974 League Cup Final. Wolves againstthe wonderfully flashy Man City side of Marsh, Law, Bell, Lee and therest. It was John Richards’ League Cup really, scoring in allrounds bar one, including the winner here when he could hardly walk,and the one that knocked Liverpool out in the quarter final. Man ofthe match was birthday boy Gary Pierce in goal but it was pictures ofDougan and Law that stole the headlines the next morning as Law, in aWolves shirt, celebrated the Doog getting some silverware and Doogknelt down and gave thanks. He didn’t mean to steal the show. Hejust was the show!

Game 2 was my first atMolineux. I went to Lanchester Polytechnic (now Coventry University)in 1974. It was a close to Wolverhampton as I dare get withoutgiving the game away...... Second week of term, Wolves v Porto, UEFACup 1^st Round; 1-4 down from first leg. First person inthe ground on a drizzly night. Won 3-1 but, if I recall, we wereundone by an outrageous own goal from the kick-off away and anothero.g. at home after taking an early lead. The game was memorable fora long range headed goal by Doog, his last in Europe, and Porto’sdiving and faking injury. I think they invented it! At one pointDougan and another (was it Steve Daley?) picked up a mortally woundedPorto player and dropped him over the touchline! Might not get awaythat these days but then there would have been injury time! It was acracking game.

Game 3 was a reservegame v Man City. It was in his last season, 1974-5, and themiserable Bill McGarry, who appeared to resent the relationship thatThe Doog had with the fans, was determined not to play him in thefirst team. So, I rang the ground to ask if he was playing in thereserves and I, along with a few hundred others turned up. No ideawhat the score was but I do recall The Doog explaining to youngwinger Jimmy Kelly what his role was!

And the last was hislast. 26 April 1975 and McGarry relented to name him as sub,ironically against Leeds including some of the players that had triedto get Wolves to throw the final game of the season 3 years earlier. It was very satisfying to see them form the guard of honour at thestart of the game! The game was entirely meaningless (Leeds finished9^th, 6 points ahead of Wolves) but McGarry delayed anddelayed. I think he got about 15 minutes and the final cries of “onhis head” rang out.

Better players may haveplayed for The Wolves, but not many, and the memories are verystrong.

You can follow Steve on twitter @stevejharris

If you would like the write an article for the my favourite player series, use the contact me page to get in touch!

The new boys!

2011-07-28T17:28:00.002+01:00

It's always interesting to see how the promoted sides fare in the first season back, and this season is no different. QPR, Norwich and Swansea will prove tough opponents for everyone, you can never underestimate them. It will be a hard push to match the feats of Newcastle, West Brom and of course Blackpool but these guys will go all out for it and certainly spring a few surprises.

Matt G-Freebody / QPR / http://www.qparmchair.wordpress.com - http//www.verbalfootball.wordpress.com

Are you happy with howyour club has strengthened so far since promotion?

No. Despite our successful title winning season last year, the team is not good enough to compete in the EPL. Taarabt was our talisman and he's back off to France. Looks like Kieron Dyer signed on a free transfer is his replacement. He may have bags of talent and Premier League experience but he's not going to play much considering his injury track record. The free signing of Jay Bothroyd is a bargain, we needed a solid striker up front with only the likes of Helgusson (no knees) and Patrick 'Dave' Agyemang to really call upon. However, he was only signed after the likes of Danny Graham and Craig Mackail-Smith turned us down for Swansea and Brighton. We're after DJ Campbell too although the deal has stalled. News today that Danny Gabbidon is on trial (another free agent). Despite the riches of our owners, they've got Neil Warnock in handcuffs.

Have you got the rightmanager?

Of course. Neil Warnock was able to turn a mid-table team into a league winning one in just over 12 months. However, he was helped by the influence the Mittal's and Co. had in the board room and was able to do his job. Since they've gone, he's got a budget of £1.25 mill for transfers and rumours of him being replaced are in the tabloids every week.

Who should we watch outfor?

We don't really have any youngsters ready to make a name for themselves in the top flight. Our midfielder Akos Buzsaky is excellent and he deserves to be in the Premier League, he's a creative midfielder with a great shot on him. His fitness levels are questionable though. Also, the player involved in the big FA court case last season, Alejandro Faurlin will suit the EPL. He's Argentine and got a superb pass on him from midfield.

If you could sign anyplayer for your team, who would it be?

Obviously being realistic, I would've signed Matthew Upson and Nigel Reo-Coker (both free agents). Plus I would've made bids for Scott Parker, Robert Green and Peter Crouch. However, there's a wage structure in place at Loftus Road that seems to prevent us from signing Premier League quality.

How do you see Wolvesdoing this season?

I really enjoyed watching Wolves last season, Mick McCarthy has impressed me with the progression he has made to the team there but I think now Wolves fans should be aiming for a mid-table finish without any threat of relegation. The signing of Roger Johnson is excellent. I also like Matt Jarvis, Jamie O'Hara, Steven Fletcher and Kevin Doyle. Very exciting players.

Predicted results vWolves home and away?

Oh, well as long as I am not attending we may have a chance of winning. All the games I've been to versus Wolves has seen us leading by 2 goals only for your lot to make a come back. I think it'll be a share of the spoils and both teams will pick up wins at home.

And finally, where willyou finish this season?

This depends on what happens at the club over the course of the season. I strongly believe that the owners (Briatore & Ecclestone) are restricting Neil Warnock in the transfer window so that he fails and they can bring in the likes of Ancelotti or Lippi as manager (although they will probably end up appointing someone like Vialli). This change would be very sad, but it may cause them to spend money come January and that could see us finish mid-table. Alternatively, the Mittals might come back and buy the club, giving Warnock more freedom to do his job and we'll manage to survive by the skin of our teeth. However, anywhere between 20th and 15th looks realistic.

Martin Reynolds / Norwich / http://www.norwich-city.com

Have you got the right manager?

Without a shadow of doubt! Paul Lambert has completely transformed the club from League One to a Premiership club and we all know that it will be a struggle to hold on to him when the `bigger` clubs come calling.

Will Elliott Bennett come back to haunt Wolves?

Who should we watch out for?

Wes Hoolahan and possibly Grant Holt, I also think new signing Anthony Pilkington from Huddersfield could be the surprise package.

If you could sign any player for your team, who would it be?

Henri Lansbury from Arsenal is a realistic target and I would love to see that happen but a dream signing would be David Villa or Messi!

How do you see Wolves doing this season?

I like Mick McCarthy, an honest, no nonsense manager who doesn`t suffer fools gladly and I was pleased for him that Wolves stayed up. I think you should be ok again and see a decent position around 13^th or 14th being a possibility.

Predicted results v Wolves home and away?

Wolves at Carrow Road, 3-1 to City and a 1-1 draw at Molineux.

And finally, where will you finish this season?

Jim White / Swansea City / http://www.scfc.co.uk

Are you happy with how your club has strengthened so far since promotion?

We have signed our main target which was a new striker and all Swans fans will be happy that Danny Graham has joined. He along with another of our new signings (Steven Caulker) are young and hungry which is exactly the type of player we go for. We do need to probably bring in another 3 or 4 players in but we started our preparations around 4 weeks later than anyone else and so I am sure by the time Aug 15th comes around, we will have strengthened.

Have you got the right manager?

1000000% we have! First season as manager, our man Brendan gets us promoted. He has moved us on tactically, understands what we feel as Swansea fans and is a genuinely lovely man. He is respected by players, the board and our fans and we hope he will stay with us for many years to come!

Who should we watch out for?

Pundits will pick out Scott Sinclair because of his goals but Nathan Dyer on the other wing is just as tricky. We are a team that don't have a lot of stars but a lot of players that will work very hard for each other. We play a 4-3-3 with 2 holding midfielders and so keep an eye out for Stephen Dobbie who plays at the front of the midfield 3 and little Joe Allen who is a very special talent in the centre of the park. Ashley Williams is our strongman at the back who will win a number of admirers with his strength and distribution. All swans fans are hoping that Ferrie Bodde comes back to full fitness after 2 years out and 3 knee operations! An awesome player who will grace the premiership with his passing ability and shooting if he can stay fit!

If you could sign any player for your team, who would it be?

I think that all Swans fans feel like were missing a goalkeeper since Dorus De Vries left us to join you at Wolves. De Vries has his failings though and so it is an area we would have wanted to strengthen anyway. Therefore, if we could sign one player it would probably be a goalkeeper such as Lee Camp. All Swans fans would be happy if he came to join us!

How do you see Wolves doing this season?

Nathan Dyer: One to watch

You have more experience of the premiership than we do and so you should be higher up the table. We don't know a huge amount about you but we all respected Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt from their time at Reading. Mick McCarthy always seems to produce solid, well organised teams that get the results that you need to and so I would expect you to survive and finish around 14th or 15th

Predicted results v Wolves home and away?

I think that we will be tricky for anyone at home and being honest, if we are to stay up then beating teams like Wolves at home will be vital if we are to stay up. We also do need to ensure we pick up points away but I can see us beating you 2-1 at home and losing 2-0 away!

And finally, where will you finish this season?

Everyone expects us to finish in the bottom 3 but I think we will surprise people and survive. It will be tight and tough but our style of football and team spirit will get us 11 wins and 9 draws so that we finish in 16th!

Thanks to Matt, Martin and Jim for answering my questions.

What are your thoughts on the three promoted sides?

5 years and counting

2011-07-21T16:26:00.002+01:00

21/7/06 - The best thing to happen for Wolves for a long time.

It is of course the day Michael Joseph McCarthy was appointed manager. There are, and always will be people who don't like him but there isn't much arguing with the job he has done and what he has created at Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club.

"I'll tell you what - and I've said it before….my initials MM stand for Mick McCarthy not Merlin Magician….."

Those were the words from his first press conference, but he's not far off from being Merlin the Magician!

His interviews are always something to look forward to on MOTD

Some of his tactics have been odd, decisions strange and he's a stubborn old fool but in the end, he has always come good. After that wobble in the Championship, the change to 4-5-1 the next year and when we rescued our season against West Brom earlier this year are all good cases for that.

Most importantly, in my opinion, he has given us a team we can be proud of. A team that will never stop working. And a team that really cares.

I was delighted to hear that he wanted another five years, and to possibly get a trophy in that time because that's what I think we should be aiming at. And with the progress we have made in the past five years, who's to say we can't improve even more?

Thank you Mick, for giving us our club back. Here's to another five years!

You Berra believe it!

2011-07-19T22:38:00.000+01:00

Wolves fans everywhere, it has happened.

The unthinkable.

Could the Kightly of old be back?

Yes, Christophe Berra scored a goal, for Wolves! It was the winner too, in a 3-2 victory against Walsall.

It was a game full of positives. Michael Kightly looked sharp and got a goal, as did Leigh Griffiths.

A couple of the youngsters did well too, Danny Batth was impressive next to Jody Craddock in the first half. For me, he is our most promising youngster and is the most likely to feature in any games once the season begins. David Davis put in a strong performance in midfield, and Kristian Kostrna picked up where he left off at Crewe.

Roger Johnson could be heard bellowing out orders once again, which is promising. We knew what we would get with him but it really is pleasing to have a competent leader at the back who will also help our other defenders progress.

Wolves sign Roger Johnson!

2011-07-13T10:09:00.002+01:00

It's official, Wolves have revealed the signing of centre back Roger Johnson.

Needless to say I'm chuffed.

This was the signing we all wanted, as soon as 'survival sunday' ended. Finally now we seem to have a commanding, strong centre back at his prime.

Roger, meet our captain Karl.

And it doesn't look like he is signing for the £7 million fee that was reported either, as Jez reckon. If it was a record transfer fee, I'm sure they would have said that. Have we got ourselves a bargain?

It will be interesting to see who he partners too. The most obvious choice, for me, would be Richard Stearman. Stearman has the pace and composure on the ball to slot in next to Johnson. I'm not sure that's Mick's plan though, we have been heavily linked with Matthew Upson and if he were to sign he would be an automatic first choice.

For now though, let's just be pleased we have significantly strengthened our defence! Would you be happy if he was our ONLY defensive signing?

A bullet dodged?

2011-07-08T10:46:00.002+01:00

So Leicester have signed Matt Mills from Reading for around £4m, but could end up around £5.5m after add ons.

I can't help but feel glad that we've 'missed out' on him.

The few times I have watched him I can't say I've been impressed. He is strong and throws himself in front of the ball but he is also slow, clumsy and rash. Is he actually any better than our current defenders?

I'd like to think that this now means Wolves can turn their attentions to other targets such as Roger Johnson, Sebastien Bassong and Jonny Evans. All players I believe, would cost between £5 - 8 million. Johnson right now, seems the most likely. Be patient though, because if we are going for him it is certainly not for the £10 million Birmingham now apparently want (which is also considerably less than they initially wanted).

I can see us getting him for around £8m because eventually Birmingham will have to give in, as they are in desperate need of the money.

Is one centre back enough though? It's possible that we are in for two. With Steven Mouyokolo going out on a season long loan, it leaves us with only three first team central defenders. Or maybe, just maybe is it finally time for highly rated youngster Danny Batth step up to first team action?

How much is Kevin Doyle worth?

2011-07-04T13:19:00.001+01:00

Various newspapers and website are linking Kevin Doyle with a £12m move to Arsenal.

The first thing I thought wasn't 'Doyle to Arsenal? Wow' but '£12m? Get lost!'. In the mad world of the transfer market, surely we can get more than that for our star player?

Snobby Arsenal fans disagree, I've seen a lot of comments and tweets venting their anger over the whole thing. They seem to think Doyler is a direct replacement for Nasri, Fabregas and Clichy!

I'd be gutted if we sold Kevin, because I'm looking forward to seeing if him and Steven Fletcher can form a partnership. They seem to compliment each other, and could both easily bag 10+ goals a season each.

If Mr.Wenger did make an enquiry what price would you tell him? I think I'd tell him to start at £15m. Anything less, and they can do one.

Wolves announce second signing

2011-06-22T13:28:00.000+01:00

After a month of inactivity, Wolves have made their second signing in as many days!

Dorus De Vries, who helped Swansea to promotion last season, has signed on a free transfer. At only thirty he brings experience and there is still plenty of room for improvement.

We now have our replacement for Marcus Hahnemann, and I think it is a good signing. He kept 20 odd clean sheets last season, and was an integral part of Swansea's free flowing football. He is comfortable on the ball and releases it early.

He is certainly moving out of his comfort zone as he said so himself. He was sure to be number one at Swansea, so it's an ambitious move to try and fight for the number one jersey here with Wayne Hennessey and Carl Ikeme.

It will be interesting to see what happens though, if Hennessey continues his good form will he be content after a few months? We have changed our number one goalkeeper for the last two seasons, is that Mick's plan again?

O'Hara signs!

2011-06-21T14:18:00.000+01:00

The news that all Wolves fans have been waiting for has finally come. Jamie O'Hara has signed a five year deal with Wolves.

It was never in doubt, despite silly rumours that QPR were in for him and the suggested £5m is more than reasonable.

With a full pre-season behind him, and his back injury out of the way I fully expect him to be even better than in his loan spell. He is a step up in class, the kind of quality we need to be buying in all positions from now on.

There were rumours we would announce a double signing today, with a Championship goalkeeper joining us. Among the list of linked keepers are Dorus de Vries, Adam Federici and Andy Lonergan. All are good goalkeepers and would be a decent back up to our current number one, Wayne Hennesey.

Competition

The winner of the Elgar shirt competition is Paul Field. I've sent you an email, well done!

Competition time

2011-06-20T09:51:00.002+01:00

With no one winning the fixtures competition, here is the promised one for the Elgar shirt!

It is easy to enter, just send your answer through the contact me page. For the subject put 'Competition' with your answer below! Be sure to put your correct email, otherwise I can't contact you if you win.

Here's the question: How many caps did Billy Wright win for England?

The deadline is tomorrow lunchtime, so I will announce the winner around then.

Good luck.

Make room for more!

2011-06-18T10:24:00.000+01:00

Although we do not need to confirm our 25 man squad until September, there is a lot of talk about who fills where in our squad.

With Hahnemann, Basso, Jones and Mancienne all departing, it leaves it at 21. Bring Ikeme back in, and it's back up to 22.

Who are the incoming three then? I'm not 100% sure, but I think we have to name a third goalkeeper even if he is underage and that is largely the reason why it looks like we are set to sign one. Up to 23 then.

We've been linked with a move for Roger Johnson

Then there is a space in the defence. God knows how many we have been linked with so far. It's well known that we are likely to sign at least one, if not two, centre backs. Up to 24.

With David Jones leaving at the end of his contract, it leaves room for another centre midfielder. This is an interesting one. We don't really know what formation we will play. Mick looks like he wants to make 442, and stumbled across a formula for it towards the end of the season. If we were to sign a centre midfielder, along with Jamie O'Hara would that mean dropping our captain, Karl Henry? Up to 25.

As many of you will probably agree, I don't think we will sign only three players. The left back position is another priority, but I don't think it would mean selling George Elokobi. It would leave us with only one definite left back (assuming we bought one) so I can see us selling at least one centre back and unfortunately, it looks ever more likely that Steven Mouyokolo will be that man. We may want to sign two centre backs, so would that mean selling another centre back, or a fringe player like Dave Edwards, Adlene Guedioura or even Michael Kightly?

Here's what a 25 man squad could look like for us:

Hennessey
Ikeme
GOALKEEPER

Foley
Zubar
Craddock
Stearman
Berra/CENTRE BACK
CENTRE BACK

Happening again very soon, hopefully

Elokobi
LEFT BACK

Hammill
Kightly
Jarvis
Hunt
Henry
Milijas
O'Hara
Guedioura
Edwards
CENTRE MIDFIELDER

Doyle
Fletcher
Ebanks-Blake
Ward

That also means no place for Greg Halford, Sam Vokes, Andy Keogh or Stefan Maiehofer who all look set to leave Molineux this summer.

If we signed good, capable players there to add to a group of players with 2 years Premier League experience we would be looking at quite a strong squad. So if we did, what would be our expectations?

Because you know what, I don't think my heart could taken another season like last year's.

Wolves fixtures released

2011-06-17T09:13:00.000+01:00

Wolves will begin the 2011-12 season with a trip to Ewood Park. Bring back memories?

I'm not very excited about that, can you blame me? When do we ever beat Blackburn, expecially away?!

We follow that game up with at home to Fulham, with their new manager Martin Jol and then we are away to Villa.

Happy days

It's not a terrible start, but it's not a nice one either. Our boxing day day fixtures sees us go to the Emirates to face Arsenal, and we finish away to Wigan.

The Black Country derby games will be on in mid October and early February.

Full fixture list here: http://www.wolves.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10307,00.html

No one got the first fixture right, so we will have another competition for the shirt on Monday!

Competition time! Predict who Wolves will get in first game of the season

2011-06-15T10:41:00.000+01:00

The football season is still a while away, but football fans everywhere can't wait on Friday. At nine in the morning the fixtures for the season will be announced. Until then, all we can do is speculate on who we will get first or last, when the Black Country derby's will be or when we get another chance to beat Manchester United.

There's an Elgar t-shirt up for grabs (see the picture on the right), if you can correctly predict who Wolves will get on the opening day o f the Premier League season.

It's easy to enter, just enter your prediction (e.g. Fulham, home) below in the comment box! Make sure you put the right email, so that I can contact you if you win.

On another note, congratulations to Bob China who sneaked into first place on the final weekend in the prediction league. Wolfie looked like he had it in the bag, but did not make his predictions for the last round of games. The table will be up tomorrow.

How do you solve a problem like Mouyokolo?

2011-06-03T12:22:00.000+01:00

“It didn’t work out for Steven Mouyokolo and it didn’t work out for Jelle Van Damme – we got our dough back on that one – but overall we’ve got the nucleus of a 40-point Premier League side that played in the hardest league for a long time and is still here.”

Does that quote from Mick signal the end for Steven Mouyokolo?

Who? Don't you remember him?

I don't blame you. Signed from Hull last summer, Tiger's fans despaired. If there were two players they least wanted to sell it was the two we had bought from them. Stephen Hunt has gone on to prove his worth, but this guy has been an enigma.

Quick, powerful and comfortable on the ball. This is what Hull fans told us but so far we have seen the opposite. All we've seen is him being bamboozled by Johan Elmander and bullied by Jason Roberts. He promised a lot in the cup game at United, he look half decent but lacking fitness. We haven't seen anything since.

I have a small glimmer of hope that with a full pre-season, he may improve. He had plenty of niggling injuries throughout the season, and in his few appearances has looked short of fitness. If he can get fit, maybe then can he finally prove he can be the centre back we were told he was?

He's also still relatively young. He's twenty four and has three years remaining on his contract. Will he still be here to show us what he can do?

'Super sub and real star for the future'

2011-06-01T11:41:00.001+01:00

When Nathaniel Mendez-Laing made his debut versus Swindon, and produced a man of the match display it looked like we had a player who could be breaking through soon. Since then he hasn't made an appearance in a Wolves shirt. he's been on loan in League One this season with Peterborough, so I looked for Peterborough fans and found two on theposhforum.co.uk who were willing to give me a short report on 'NML'.

This is what Kelly Green (forum user name - Junior15) had to say about Nat:

Super sub and real star for the future. It’s hard to believe that this guy is only nineteen, what he lacks in ball control he more than makes up for in strength, speed and skill.

His stats don’t really do him credit; nine starts, twenty five substitute appearances and five goals. Mendez-Laing is a deadly force to have on the bench; a real impact player. Similar to Craig Mackail-Smith he never gives up and will run for any ball. Compared to the start of the season his confidence has begun to flourish and where he once wouldn’t take on defenders he will now power down the flanks and won’t let anyone stand in his way. His youthful desire is what has given Peterborough that extra kick in the last minutes of the game. He has saved their back numerous times creating, and scoring last minute chances. Sadly when starting a game Nathaniel seems to get lost this could just be a lack of confidence.

This guy deserves more minutes on the pitch and in years to come I can see him being a solid, creative winger for a top level team. The potential is definitely there now it’s time for Mendez-Laing to shine.

'BristlePosh' had this to say about him:

Keen as mustard, loved his attitude and his pace, when he learns to play for ninety minutes like he does when he comes on as a sub he'll be one hell of a player. It would be nice if he could remain another season, but I wonder whether the fact that he is not getting the number of starts he probably needs, maybe will play against us getting his services, With players like Boyd, Mackail-Smith, McLean (until Janurary) and Tomlin, it was always going to be tough for him to get the starts he needs. Perhaps a different First division side maybe the place for him next year, where he would get more starts.

The general feeling on Mendez-Laing seemed to be that he was a very good impact player, but that he doesn't have enough in him to complete a full game. Maybe this is about the tempo he plays at. Whenever I have watched him, he looks strong and powerful but lacking with the finishing touch.

It's good to see that he has contributed significantly to Peterborough's promotion, the fans seem to have a lot of affection for him.

I wouldn't be surprised to see him go on loan again, possibly to Posh but hopefully atleast a Championship club. He could even get a couple of games for us in the cups, it's always nice to see what the youngsters can do in those games.

The Bullys - MyWolvesBlog silly awards

2011-05-25T13:23:00.000+01:00

It's been a funny season hasn't it, a memorable one with some very funny moments. Here are some I remember..

Silliest moment

I really wish I could find a picture of it, but this happened early in the season away at Chelsea. Christophe Berra had been fouled, and as he was lying on the floor not knowing a freekick had been given he was trying toget the ball out of play with his head. Had me in bits!

Act of braveness that was really stupidity

Here is one picture of Berra I have found. No wonder he never scores when he does ridiculous things like this! A cross comes in for the right and instead of tapping in from a yard he decides to go for a diving header. He connects... with the goalpost.

Best opposition fail

This came on the opening day, in our victory over Stoke. Holding onto a two one lead, Rory Delap stepped up to take a throw in in probably their last attack.His throw ins are nearly always a threat but not this time. Rory look in disappointment as it slipped as his hand to give away a foul throw.

Best slip

Richard Stearman hadn't been on the pitch long when he broke away from two challenges against West Brom. We got on our feet, he had the legs to make something of this opportunity. Unfortunately his legs decided not as he tripped over himself, cue laughter.

Grooviest dance

Forget Gyan's celebration, I think everyone should try the Mick!

Best Mick QuoteS

It wouldn't be right if there wasn't a classic Mick quote somewhere. In fact, let's have a few.

"The sending off last year was disgraceful – I didn’t think it was a particularly bad foul on Lucas,” said McCarthy. “Pepe Reina ran 70-odd yards to get involved and get him sent off but he was going anyway so it wasn’t needed. “If he recognised Wardy’s face bearing down on him and sticking the ball past him for the winner then I’m delighted.”

"I'm surprised because I told them to go out and knock seven bells out of them like I usually do, and they've actually played free flowing football" - Mick McCarthy following Wolves' draw with West Ham, mocking the allegations that he informs his players to foul the opposition.

"It's Wayne Rooney in the news this week, is it? Blimey, we've not tackled him have we?"

"What is the wing-speed velocity of an unladen swallow?"

And on Sunday, after being sprayed by George Elokobi: "If it was anyone else I'd do them....my body double."

Think I've missed out some funny moments, comment below with yours!

Lucky Wolves

2011-05-23T21:14:00.000+01:00

I haven't said that often this season.

The 18 minutes that we were in the relegation yesterday seemed like an eternity as I was sat praying in the car on the way back from my brother's cup final. Typical, both four o'clock kick offs. I had BBC live Football updates on my phone, refreshing the page every minute even though it automatically updates itself.

I wasn't even sure if I wanted to watch Football First at half eight, because I'd heard how rubbish we were in the first half and how Blackburn just sat back in the second half.

But you know what, I didn't even think we were that bad. We had dominated in periods, looked quite comfortable and then conceded two quite unlucky goals. Sure, we could have defended a bit better but both goals were deflected as far as I could see. Jason Roberts will not score a jammier goal and I'm convinced Hennessey would have saved Emerton's volley had it not skimmed off Elokobi on it's way. Hoillet's goal was very poorly defended all over the place. We shouldn't take too much away from him though, it was a goal of real quality.

In true Wolves style, we battled back. We were allowed to press forward, but Blackburn have a decent set of defenders and a top class goalkeeper. Our two goals were both brilliant.A repeat of the free kick v West brom worked it's magic again, with O'Hara finishing well. Hunt's goal, typically at the right place at the right time, was a goal of the season contender. The first touch was perfect, the finish even more so.

There was no doubting who our standout performers were in the game. Jamie O'Hara has slowly improved after a dip in form, and is looking more comfortable in a four man midfield. We simply have to sign him, because he is the type of player we need to progress up the league. The other player, my man of the match, was a more unsung hero. Stephen Ward shows great backbone every time he plays because he is under the most pressure of them all. He's barracked so often, yet recently has played a huge part in keeping us up.

Hennessey - 7

Foley - 7
Craddock - 6
Mancienne - 7
Elokobi - 6

Jarvis - 6
Henry - 6
O'Hara - 8
Hunt - 7

Fletcher - 7
Ward - 8

We can have some time to celebrate for now, but I'm not sure my heart can take another day or even season like that. We really need to push on now, we've got ourselves in a great position to do it.

Well done Wolves.

It all comes down to this

2011-05-21T17:45:00.001+01:00

Here we are, ready for the final day of the season. Is it just me that is really, really nervous? Maybe it's that I won't be able to watch the game, and like last week will have a radio in my ear listening for results.

We go into the game against Blackburn in probably the most favourable position as we are the only team in the relegation scrap with a home game. This is however Wolves we are talking about, we don't always do it the easy way.

They key could be getting the first goal, not just in our game but the first of the day. We've been pretty good at that recently, scoring first in four of the last five games. In the last two, we've gone on to score three.

You'd expect to see the same line up bar one. I can see Matthew Jarvis returning to the side instead of Adlene Guedioura. Being dropped seems to have given Matty a good kick up the arse, as he helped turned the game around against Sunderland. I could have seen Kevin Doyle starting, but it looks like he injured his knee at the end of the game at the Stadium of Light and could miss out tomorrow.

Defending and attacking set pieces is going to be huge aswell We know the threat that Blackburn offer. Samba, Jones, Givet, N'Zonzi and Roberts are big players that can nick a goal from a corner or free kick. We've been pretty decent at set pieces too recently, and in Stephen Hunt we have one of the best corner takers in the league.

Player of the year Jarvis should start

Here's what Mick will probably go with:

Hennessey

Foley
Craddock
Mancienne
Elokobi

Jarvis
Henry
O'Hara
Hunt

Fletcher
Ward

Fletcher and Ward have put together a pretty good partnership, and they'll have to be at their best against Samba and Jones. As good as Fletcher is in the air, it won't be much use booting it up to them so we will need to work our way round them. They aren't particularly quick at the back, so an outlet like Jarvis will be a huge problem for them.

I do think it's going to be a tight game, but I see us edging it and that would mean not having to worry about other results. 2-1 Wolves for me.

If you are going to Molineux, have a great time and get behind the lads. Come on you Wolves.

Prediction League: Chance to win a signed Wolves football

2011-05-18T20:26:00.000+01:00

Here we are, the last week to predict!

Wolfie holds a big lead at the top, surely Bob China can not catch him now?

Here are the fixtures:

Aston Villa v Liverpool
Bolton v Man City
Everton v Chelsea
Fulham v Arsenal
Man Utd v Blackpool
Newcastle v West Brom
Stoke v Wigan
Tottenham v Birmingham
West Ham v Sunderland
Wolves v Blackburn

Good luck

At the double: Sunderland 1 Wolves 3

2011-05-15T12:02:00.000+01:00

Another three one win, two wins on the trot and our first double of the season. It can hardly have gone much better can it?

And yet, I still have that nervous feeling that I have had for the last two weeks that we will still manage to mess this up. With Blackpool winning, we still look over our shoulder worryingly. A win for them at Old Trafford next week is not possible, right?

We did well not to cave in when Sunderland equalised, plenty of other teams might have fallen apart at this point but once again we fought back. That battling spirit and a three bits of quality saw us through. We did get some bits of luck, as we could have been a couple of goals down by half time. Zenden struck the bar early on, and Hennessey made some good saves.

Nothing pleased me more than Jarvis' run and hanging cross for Fletcher to nod in either, he was excellent when he came on. Fletcher is on fire now, and I'm licking my lips at a partnership of him and Doyle next week.

Jamie O'Hara looks like he is returning to what we saw when he first joined us. He was unlucky not to score and his ball in for Elokobi's goal was perfect. If we can stay up and sign him, with a full pre-season he could be an even bigger player for us than he already is.

To think we were down and out only two weeks ago, and now we are so close to another year of Premier League football.

Sunderland v Wolves preview

2011-05-13T19:01:00.000+01:00

If results go well this weekend, it could possibly end up with Wolves not having to worry going into the final game at home to Blackburn.

But when have Wolves ever done it the easy way?

This is an ideal time to be playing Sunderland. Ravaged with injuries, no centre forward and in very poor form. They secured safety last week, much like West Brom which could work in our favour. A get-in-your-face attitude, pressing high and flying into tackles could help us on our way to three precious points.

For that kind of performance, Stephen Hunt is vital. His set piece delivery in this game could be the difference in what will quite likely be a scrappy game. He finally looks rid of injury and looks like he is actually fit. His touch has improved a great deal too.

I can't see Mick messing with the team, if there are no injuries.

Hennessey

Wolves celebrate SEB's late winner v. Sunderland

Foley
Craddock
Mancienne
Elokobi

Guedioura
Henry
O'Hara
Hunt

Ward
Fletcher

This team proved you don't have to have loads of pace to win a game convincingly. They might not fancy this type of game, especially with all the injuries surrounding them so I'm going for a 2-1 Wolves win. That would be two on the trot for the first time this season.

If you are going, get behind the lads and have a great time.

Pinch me: Wolves 3 West Brom 1

2011-05-08T20:14:00.000+01:00

We've had some great results this season against some great teams but I think this one tops them all.

A rare derby win, three goals and most important of all it lifts us out of the bottom three with just two games remaining.

I have to admit, when the teams were announced I wasn't confident in the slightest. I feared we were going to be overrun in midfield and that we had no outlet out wide. How silly of me!

You've got to hand it to Mick and the players. They wanted it more and the work rate was unbelievable.

The standout players were the three Stephens for me. Ward, Fletcher and Hunt were all fantastic. Ward isn't exactly flavour of the month amongst most fans but I don't think many can argue that this was possibly his finest performance in an old gold shirt. Him and Fletcher led the line and defended from the front. Mr.Fletcher could be keeping us up with his goals, that's ten in the league this season. No Wolves player has ever achieved that in the Premier League. He won almost everything in the air today. His header back across goal for the second goal was fantastic, he's really looking worth every penny of the six and a half million pounds we paid for him.

And finally, Stephen Hunt. Have you ever seen a more determined performance? He doesn't ever pull out, and he finally looks like he is over his injury problems. When he first came into the team, he looked sluggish and his touch had deserted him. Now he is a breath of fresh air. Not forgetting his crossing ability. His corners for the goals were both perfect.

Hennessey - 8

Foley - 8
Mancienne - 7
Craddock - 7
Elokobi - 6

Guedioura - 7
Henry - 7
O'Hara - 7
Hunt - 9

Fletcher - 9
Ward - 8

As was the case this week, we face another team who are now safe from relegation. Sunderland with all their injuries will now be looking forward to the end of the season. Could we get some precious away points?

Another opportunity arises - Wolves v West Brom preview

2011-05-07T20:12:00.001+01:00

With the four teams around us drawing, Wolves are left with yet another chance to climb out of the bottom three.

West Brom (excuse my language) come to Molineux safe for another year in the Premier League. Undoubtedly, their fans will be relishing the idea of condemning us to Championship football. We live in hope that the Albion players have taken their foot off the gas, planning their summer holidays.

Can we overcome Roy Hodgson's men, one of the in form teams in the league? They say form goes out of the window for derby games, let's all hope so!

It gets harder every week to predict how we will line up. What formation we will go with? I have a sneaky feeling Mick might go with a five man midfield. We don't want to get outnumbered and lose the midfield battle. He talked about a lack of guile, while he kept Nenad Milijas on the bench. I can see him being recalled however, next to Karl Henry and Jamie O'Hara. The latter needs to up his performances, would anyone really be surprised if he was dropped?

What I see us going with:

Hennessey

Foley
Craddock
Mancienne
Elokobi

Jarvis
O'Hara
Henry
Milijas
Hunt

Fletcher

If we keep the ball well, give Steven Fletcher some decent service and we can win this game.

Can we get a result? I'm not too confident. I'm going for another score draw. 1-1

Prediction Leaue: Chance to win a signed Wolves football

2011-05-04T21:18:00.000+01:00

After a long absence, the prediction league is back!

Funnily enough, no one predicted that Phil Neville would score against Wolves either...

Wolfie still tops the table, by 35 points.

It's really easy to join in, just copy the list of fixtures and put your scores and scorers.

Fixtures:

Aston Villa v Wigan
Bolton v Sunderland
Everton v Man City
Newcastle v Birmingham
West Ham v Blackburn
Tottenham v Blackpool
WOLVES v West Brom
Stoke v Arsenal
Man Utd v Chelsea
Fulham v Liverpool

Good luck!

Out of Darkness....

2011-04-29T22:31:00.000+01:00

Anyone remember the last time we were easily beaten three nil, away to a long ball team?

We then went into the game without key players, looking in serious trouble...

We faced Birmingham. Mick put faith in Ward and Ebanks-Blake up front, and we bulldozed our way past the Blues. Well, could it be about to happen again?

I don't think it can get much worse than the defeat on Tuesday. We didn't look like we had the fight and that was what worried me most. In times like these, our team have always seemed to fight their way out.

The only person you can guarantee starting tomorrow is Hennessey, the only player who came out of that game with any credit. But what will Mick go with?

Fans favourites Ward, Edwards and Hunt celebrate

Even with our lack of striking options, I can see Mick going with 4-4-2 in an attempt to push us forward. Usually this worries me, but against a team like Birmingham I think you can afford to do it. Birmingham aren't a team blessed with pace on the break. Alex McCleish is known for adopting negative tactics, if we press them back we can do so without having to worry so much.

I can see Mick ringing in the changes. In the defence, Christophe Berra has been nowhere near his usual solid self recently. I can see Stearman moving back inside, and Kevin Foley being restored to right back. Michael Mancienne played most of the game at left back on Tuesday, which could see Stephen Ward partner Fletcher up front (if he's fit). Jamie O'Hara and Matthew Jarvis both look like they need breaks, while Stephen Hunt looks ready to come into the team.

This is my vague idea of what could be going on inside Mick's head:

Hennessey

Foley
Craddock
Stearman
Mancienne

Kightly/Jarvis
Henry
Milijas/O'Hara
Hunt

Fletcher
Ward

I'm a big fan of 4-5-1, and think it represents our best chance of staying up but I think that type of team could get a positive result at St. Andrew's on Sunday.

I'm sure there are plenty who disagree!

Away days

2011-04-26T16:37:00.000+01:00

We did it last season and now we need to do it again.

It was around this time that we strung two or three away results on the spin, pushing us up the table and helping us on our way to safety. Now we have the chance to do so again.

The next two games at Stoke and Birmingham represent two opportunities. Both sides have very good home records, but with this Wolves team expect the unexpected.

I would take a point from either, and a draw tonight at Britannia Stadium would lift us two places to 17th place. A win would be huge.

The draw against Fulham was disappointing, but only because we were winning the game. When you look back at it it's a good result and we were lucky to get that point. As Mick said, 'every point is a prisoner'.

What side should we expect at Stoke then? With Ebanks-Blake out injured I can't see Steven Fletcher not starting. He put in an excellent performance, and he looks like he can do the job on his own up front. I also expect to see Kevin Foley come into the team at right midfield. Adlene Guedioura kept drifting into the middle, which is where I think he will play instead of Nenad Milijas. This means Jamie O'Hara dropping deeper slightly, which could be a good thing because his performances of late haven't been as good as at the start of his loan spell.

Jody - right to be brought back?

What I think the team will be:

Hennessey

Stearman
Craddock
Berra
Ward

Foley
Guedioura
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Fletcher

That team certainly has enough in it to get something, but it's going to be tough.

Wolves v Fulham preview

2011-04-22T08:45:00.001+01:00

The next four days of the season could prove to be massive, with our home game against Fulham and trip to Stoke being games we need to get some points from.

Win tomorrow, get a result at Stoke and we will be looking down on the table and really be looking like we can stay up. Crazy isn't it, how we can all be so down and two weeks later be back alive and kicking.

We really do need a win against a Fulham team who are never very good away. They've always relied on results at Craven Cottage but they will still look to this game to surpass the 40 points mark.

Someone sure to receive a hot reception will be Danny Murphy. His comments are still not forgotten amongst Wolves, Stoke and Blackburn fans. However he's probably their best player and if we stop him we stop Fulham.

The question that sticks out is, what formation will Mick go with? He's publicly defended playing 4-4-2, saying it wasn't the reason we lost to Everton. Despite that I think Mick will revert to a five man midfield. With two out and out wingers, supporting either Fletcher or Ebanks-Blake I'm convinced it can work. Especially in a home game where we should have a large majority of the possession.

What I think Mick will go with:

Hennessey

Foley
Craddock
Berra
Ward

Hammill
Milijas
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Fletcher

That team has a good mix of work rate and quality in the final third. I see this as Fletcher's chance to prove his worth, and I think he might.

It's a scary game, but if you are going make sure to make even more noise.

I think we will take a two nil lead before half time, through Fletcher and O'Hara but concede early in the second half to make it a nail-biting finish. I'd take that though because three points would be precious.

The key?

2011-04-13T13:02:00.001+01:00

In the aftermath of Saturday's defeat, there were plenty of ideas across the internet put forward about the Wolves line up.

Do we bring back player of the year Jody Craddock? Another hero of last season, Marcus Hahnemann a potential change to bring stability to the defence. Others said we need to keep Adam Hammill in the side, and even some said drop Karl Henry!

There was a lot to be said for the formation. Funnily enough I didn't think we look that outnumbered with a four man midfield. However, I certainly agree four five one is the way to go.

Of all the changes people wanted, there is only one I am really bothered about. Nenad Milijas.

For me he is the man that can keep us in the top flight. In his quarter back role, I don't think there are many better passers of the ball. Honestly I don't.

With Milijas in the side in that role, we keep the ball ten times better and with his quality it's a crying shame that it is often at his expense when we look to be a more attacking side. Not to forget his dead ball ability, which we do not use anywhere near enough.

We have a week and a half to speculate what Mick will go with against Fulham, but what would your eleven be?

Mine:

Hennessey

Foley
Stearman
Berra
Ward

Kightly
Henry
O'Hara
Milijas
Jarvis

Fletcher

I don't think that's a bad team. Sure, Fletcher doesn't look like he can play on his own up front but I believe that is due to a lack of services. Play to his strengths, get the ball into his feet , use our wingers effectively and we can finally see thman we bought for six and a half million pounds.

Down but not out

2011-04-11T09:24:00.001+01:00

After the abject defeat to Everton, you can hardly blame many for accepting defeat and relegation. It was not just that we lost, but the manner of it. Despite twenty minutes of control, we never looked like scoring and once the inevitable happened it was disappointing to see the players' heads drop.

At the back, our full backs were particularly poor. Elokobi looks like he has returned to his former self after a good run of form and Kevin Foley, our most consistent player looked a shadow of his usual self. Our centre backs and keeper I thought, did well considering they had barely any protection. Wayne Hennessey kept the score down with a string of fantastic saves. Everytime I've been to a Wolves game this season, he has made two or three fantastic saves to keep us in it.

I was surprised to see Adlene Guedioura thrown in the deep end. However, he was arguably our best player. Twisting and turning, trying to get a shot in and keeping the ball moving. He was one of the very few positives to come out of the game. While it took Michael Kightly a while to get going he was bright and another who tried to keep the ball moving. He cut in to often for my liking but with fitness, I think we could see the old unpredictable winger we all know and love.

Mick looked worried early on

We could be in real trouble if both Steven Fletcher and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake's injuries are serious. We could be forced into recalling Sam Winnall, with Stephen Ward our only other fit first team forward. That would leave is in a spot of bother.

Hennessey - 7

Foley - 6
Stearman - 7
Berra - 6
Elokobi - 5

Guedioura - 7
Henry - 6
O'Hara - 6
Jarvis - 6

Ebanks-Blake - 6
Fletcher - 6

It makes the home game against Fulham huge and 'must win'. With this Wolves team you know they can bounce back and get a result as they have done so many times over the last two years. It looks ugly, but we have to keep the faith.

Wolves v Everton preview

2011-04-08T19:06:00.000+01:00

After a bad weekend, Wolves will want to set things straight against Everton tomorrow lunchtime. Our form is still pretty good but we need to make sure that the defeat at Newcastle was just a blip.

Everton are in good form themselves yet Wolves fans still have reason to be confident. The Toffees will have Arteta, Fellaini, Saha out. Add to that Cahill, Coleman and Rodwell are all doubtful we could face a depleted Everton side.

Of course, it will still be a tough game. David Moyes' side have picked up of late after yet another poor start to the season and sit in seventh position. Jermaine Beckford is slowly proving himself in the Premier league and we will have to watch out for his pace.

The biggest question is, once again, who will start up front. Mick has talked about Fletcher proving his worth this week, so we could see him start up front. If he does, I reckon it will be in a pair with Sylvan Ebanks-Blake. He has the ability to be a top class striker and a run of games can show that. I'm still not sure if he will start.

Michael Kightly and Adlene Guedioura should both be on the bench. Guedioura won us a point at Goodison Park earlier in the season with his crunching tackle and break away. I'm sure he can have an impact between now and the end of the season. Kightly is also nearly ready to start, but he needs some more time on the pitch not to mention the fact that Adam Hammill has done nothing to lose his place.

What I think the team will be:

Hennessey

Foley
Stearman
Berra
Elokobi

Hammill
Milijas
Henry
O'Hara
Jarvis

Ebanks-Blake

As I said, Fletcher could start and if he does it will probably be Nenad Milijas who misses out. I wouldn't rule out Guedioura starting either. He could play in the role Dave Edwards has performed so well as the runner. He has the energy and is a better player on the ball.

Prediction League: Chance to win a signed Wolves football!

2011-04-07T19:08:00.000+01:00

Back after a nice break, it's time to get predicting again.

Bob China has closed the gap but Wolfie still leads!

It's never too late to get involved with the predicting, here's how:

Five points for a correct result (e.g. Wolves win)
Ten points for a correct score (e.g. Wolves 1-0)
Three points for each correct scorer (e.g. Karl Henry)

Here are the fixtures:

Wolves v Everton
Blackburn v Birmingham
Bolton v West Ham
Chelsea v Wigan
Man Utd v Fulham
Sunderland v West Brom
Tottenham v Stoke
Blackpool v Arsenal
Aston Villa v Newcastle
Liverpool v Man City

Good luck!

Dirty Newcastle v Wolves preview

2011-04-01T20:03:00.000+01:00

How good would a win at St James Park feel come Saturday evening?

It would probably see us go out of the relegation places, drag Newcastle into the relegation battle and two fingers up to those poor fragile sensitive Newcastle souls who were so upset after our game at Molineux.

Match of the Day's editing that night affected our season for a while after they highlighted strong tackles on Barton. The period where we were labelled dirty produced our worst period of form but we are pulling ourselves out of it now. Look at the fair play league and decide for yourselves who the dirtier team is.

I do however think that that saga will be our advantage tomorrow. We have nothing to lose, but Newcastle are in a dangerous position with one win in ten and very likely to play in an aggressive nature. Hopefully, they will be more intent on kicking our players instead of using their talented players. Barton and Nolan in particular have been impressive this season, as much as I dislike them although recently Barton's excellent crossing ability has been of little use since the departure of £35 million man Andy Carroll.

Sylvan Ebanks-Blake is set to start tomorrow, and although the loss of Kevin Doyle is huge I'm confident that Sylvan can produce the goods. He may not be as clever, or as good at holding the ball up but he is a top class finisher and he will get in good positions. Doyle does a massive amount of work outside the box, though sometimes we need someone to get in the box and Sylvan can do this.

With a trio of Henry, O'Hara and Milijas up against a likely two man midfield for Newcastle, I can see us winning the midfield battle and ultimately the game.

2-1 Wolves, our number nine with a brace.

If you are going, have a great time and roar on the lads.

We can manage

2011-03-27T19:39:00.000+01:00

I was watching when Kevin Doyle first hurt his knee and then aggravated it minutes later. You could instantly tell that he would be out for a while.

It's a massive blow, but as the title suggests I think we can manage.

Now is the chance for Steven Fletcher or Sylvan Ebanks-Blake to prove they can be top dog. Neither of them have had much time on the pitch this season, but both have a pretty impressive goalscoring record.

Sylvan had a tough time last season. He was never fully fit, he looked sluggish and his goalscoring instinct seemed to have deserted him. But this season when he's been given the chance he has put in a good performance. He looks stronger, his pace has returned and on the ball he has improved massively. He's often been brought on ahead of Fletcher, which is why most people expect him to start at Newcastle.

Fletcher is already being considered a flop, a waste of six and a half million but in my mind this is the reason we bought him for. You need to have strength in depth to progress and we have that in abundance attacking wise. He's an excellent footballer, with that eye for goal. He's also a harder worker than he is given credit for.

I've got a feeling Mick will go with Fletch. All of a sudden he has an opportunity to justify the huge fee we paid for him. Whoever it is that starts, I have every faith that they will perform.

I pass the question on to you. Which one would you pick, if not both, and who do you think Mick will go with?

Jarvis makes England squad!

2011-03-20T21:30:00.000Z

This weekend probably couldn't have gone better for Matt Jarvis.

After making a couple of preliminary squads, our flying winger has now been selected for the full squad and I can't think of someone who deserves it more.

He's made it impossible to be ignored this season with his winner yesterday sealing his place in the 26-man squad.

It's a great story for someone who has gone from League One to Premiership in just a few years, someone who had raw ability but not all the end product. He's improved so much, and every plaudit he gets is fully deserved.

There's a good chance he will play at some point, most likely in the friendly against Ghana. And what a sight it will be, especially for the younger fans (like me) who haven't seen a Wolves player in an England shirt. If he does play, he'll be the first since Bully in 1991.

Now we have to pray he doesn't get injured!

England squad:
Goalkeepers: Ben Foster (Birmingham), Robert Green (West Ham), Joe Hart (Man City).

Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Bolton), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Michael Dawson (Tottenham), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Joleon Lescott (Man City), John Terry (Chelsea, capt), Kyle Walker (Aston Villa).

Midfielders: Gareth Barry (Man City), Stewart Downing (Aston Villa), Matt Jarvis (Wolves), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), James Milner (Man City), Scott Parker (West Ham), Ashley Young (Aston Villa), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal).

Strikers: Darren Bent (Aston Villa), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Peter Crouch (Tottenham), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Wayne Rooney (Man Utd).

Aston Villa 0 Wolves 1

2011-03-19T20:29:00.001Z

Eveything seems to be turning in the right direction for us now. Four games unbeaten, one defeat in six and a point off of 13th. It really was a good day for Wolves.

It was a another impressive display, and the three points we got were fully deserved even if we did have a couple of bits of luck. But they have been long overdue and we'll take them. Villa should have had a clear penalty that was inexplicably given as a free kick and I thought it was a goal when Ashley Young's effort crashed against the crossbar.

We took full advantage of their make-shift back four, our two wingers always caused panic in the Villa area and Kevin Doyle was well, Kevin Doyle. It was great to see Matty Jarvis get another goal, and take his chance so well. His alround performance was superb, nullifying the threat of Kyle Walker from right back and creating chances at the other end.

Our trio in midfield did an effective job, rarely were they allowed space in our half. I thought it was another excellent performance by Karl Henry. He does what he usually does, to great effect. Nenad Milijas produced a great alround performance. It was a relatively quiet performance from Jamie O'Hara, but his class is still there to be seen. His effort from distance was another sign of what he adds, but he looked sloppy. He hadn't played for three weeks mind.

Hennessey - 7

Foley - 7
Stearman - 6
Berra - 7
Elokobi - 6

Hammill - 7
Milijas - 7
Henry - 9
O'Hara - 6
Jarvis - 9

Doyle - 7

Subs: Ebanks-Blake - 6, Ward - 6.

We've got the momentum with us now, a trip to Newcastle us next for us and if we can win that one it drags another team into the relegation battle.

The Verdict

Every now and then I'm in the Observer for 'the verdict'. Here is my bit, you can see the full article here

LOUIE SILVANI, MyWolvesblog.com We hadn't won at Villa Park in more than 30 years, but we were strangely confident. The fact that they weren't playing Petrov, and were without two central defenders, meant this was going to be the best chance we had to get something here for many years. Matt Jarvis has taken a lot of stick recently after missing a couple of chances for us, but he got his goal against Blackpool and he took his goal brilliantly. Not only that, but he also tracked back really well, and he had to because Walker was lightning fast at full-back. We've lost one in six now, and we've got a big game next at Newcastle.

How do Wolves beat Villa?

2011-03-18T20:26:00.001Z

With the West-Midlands derby just around the corner Wolves will know that a win against Aston Villa will not only secure bragging rights for the rest of the season but three crucial points in their fight against relegation. Bigfreebet see this one as too tight to call and with so much at stake this is not one for the faint hearted. A late Emile Heskey goal meant Villa took the spoils last time round, but with passion and tension running equally high, what can Wolves do to not only stop Gerard Houillier’s side, but overturn them?

Remain disciplined

As with all derbies the tension will be palpable and passion has a tendency to overspill into indiscipline. Finding the balance between the two will be vital is Wolves are to emerge the victors. Last time around only Jody Craddock was booked for Mick McCarthy’s side, quite an achievement given the amount of quick players Villa have on the counter-attack hoping to induce a tackle. The Wolves boss has an image as somewhat of a disciplinarian and he will have to draw up all his experience to keep his men calm and not be tempted and drawn in by a pacey Villa side. The temptation to negate their speed is to get tight but this leaves you vulnerable to being turned and leaves little margin for error, so Wolves may be advised to drop off, remain patient and use Kevin Doyle as an outlet. Free kicks are also a speciality of this Villa side and there are some good dead-ball specialists on both sides, so Wolves will have to be wary of committing silly fouls around their own area.

Watch the wide-boys

If there is one area Villa are undoubtedly strong in it is the wide areas. Not only with Ashley Young and Stuart Downing who pose their own threat, but with Gabriel Agbonlahor and his tendency to drift wide from central positions. Of course waiting for this ample service is Darren Bent, one of the finest goal poachers in the league, and McCarthy will have to watch this threat carefully. Wolves and their own wide men will have to do their fair share of graft to get back and help the full-backs out, but cannot be pinned back by the threat, leaving no men available to shift the ball quickly when they need it. With Mark Albrighton thrown into the mix the task only becomes harder, but Houllier’s side are light in the centre of the park, so with Nigel Reo Coker trying to get forward as much as he can there will be gaps through the middle for Wolves to exploit.

Play the right way

Against opposition that have such a distinctive style it can be easy to be sucked into to playing a way that suits the opposition. Wolves must play their own style and win on their own terms. The potential return of Stephen Hunt will give them a little bit extra in midfield and going forward, and they will look to mix a good passing style with some direct balls into Doyle. Big free bet have installed the Irish forward as the main goal threat for Wolves and he must put himself around and show some of the finesse he did last season. Wolves have struggled to get on the scoresheet away from home this season and will have to remedy this if they are to get three valuable points.

Get lucky!

One thing that has blighted Wolves all season is downright bad luck. Even in their last outing against Spurs a goal was wrongly ruled out, and most will agree that Wolves are in a false position. But this will count for nothing come Saturday afternoon at Villa Park. They cannot curse their luck, they must get forward, get the ball into dangerous positions quickly as they have done all season and gamble. The old saying “if you don’t buy a ticket you won’t win the lottery” holds true, especially in a derby and this game could be won on a slice of fortune rather than good play.

Aston Villa v Wolves preview

2011-03-18T20:19:00.000Z

Wolves travel to Aston Villa with no wins over their midlands rivals in seventeen, since 1980 and even longer since a win at Villa Park. So why are we all quite confident?

Villa boast an attack containing Stewart Downing, Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Marc Albrighton, and Darren Bent that is amongst the best in the league, a worry for any defence anywhere. We will have to be wary of the counter attack, which is why it will be vital that Karl Henry plays as well as he has in the past couple of games. It's a type of game he usually excels in, I see him as the most important player for us tomorrow.

They will have to be aware themselves of our own attacking options. While we don't have the kind of big names that they possess, we have pace and a make shift back four is clearly their weak link. Richard Dunne, James Collins and Luke Young are injured, and Ciaran Clark is missing through suspension. They'll have a young back four out there, we need to take advantage. Kyle Walker likes to bomb forward, leaving Matty Jarvis with plenty of space to attack.

Jamie O'Hara will be back in the team, offering us something different going forward. With him and Nenad Milijas in the side, we have enough graft to go with flair. I have a sneaky feeling Ronald Zubar will be restored to the side, with Kevin Foley pushing forward to right midfield instead of Adam Hammill.

That means this team:

Hennessey

Zubar
Stearman
Berra
Elokobi

Foley
O'Hara
Henry
Milijas
Jarvis

Doyle

On a massive pitch this will be tough for us, but Aston Villa have had a dodgy run of form and this isn't a bad time to play them. I have no doubt we will play well, but will that be enough?

Up the Wolves.

Prediction League: Chance to win a signed Wolves football!

2011-03-17T18:31:00.000Z

Once again, it's time to get predicting!

Wolfie tops the table, but there is plenty of time left for that to change, there are plenty of others still in it.

It's easy to predict, just copy the fixtures out from below and guess your score and scorers.

Fixtures:

Tottenham v West Ham

Top 20

Aston Villa v Wolves
Blackburn v Blackpool
Man Utd v Bolton
Stoke v Newcastle
West Brom v Arsenal
Wigan v Birmingham
Everton v Fulham
Sunderland v Liverpool
Chelsea v Man City

Predict away.

Like a new signing

2011-03-11T17:16:00.002Z

I don't apologise for using that phrase, as I'm starting to get quite excited. The recent return to training of Michael Kightly has got me a whole lot more confident.

Not that I expect him to have a instant comeback, with a fairytale winner or anything of the sort. However, just having him on the bench is a boost. Finally it seems he is pain free (he wasn't in his few Premier League games last season), and the winger we love and know could be back.

It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Michael Kightly, this isn't the first article on him nor will it be the last.

I'm glad Mick said that he won't be sending him, or any of our fringe players, out on loan. If he's fit enough to go and play in the Championship, he's fit enough to be on the bench or play for us.

Another player who I think could have an impact between now and the end of the season is our Algerian midfielder Adlene Guedioura. With Dave Edwards getting injured so often, could Adlene be a step up from him? He certainly runs as much as him, and has the ability to beat players and importantly have a shot. He was a breath of fresh air last season, and he can be again for the run in until the end of May.

With players returning from injury, our squad looks very impressive and Mick should have a nice selection headache.

Agree that Kightly and Guedioura can make an impact? Don't? Comment and share your view!

Wolves refusing to go down without a fight

2011-03-10T17:09:00.000Z

Wolverhampton Wanderers and Mick McCarthy must be wondering just what they have to do to stay out of trouble this season. Despite some memorable results this term – including an away win against Liverpool and home victories against Manchester United and Chelsea – they remain in the relegation zone despite having accumulated more points at this point than they had done at this point last season. Last year, 31 points was the magic marker for ensuring survival but given the unpredictable and open style of the Premier League this time out, it looks like a tally closer to the traditional 40 points will be required to avoid a spell in the Championship. Not many people made Wolves betting tips to stay up just a few weeks ago, but now they really seem to be pushing on.

However, with Wolves currently sitting on 29 points, that means that Mick's boys will require a further eleven points to be able to enjoy their home fixture on the final day of the season against Blackburn Rovers – although having said that, given Rovers' horrendous away record and Wolves' recent fine attacking displays, they should enjoy fixture regardless.

Looking at their run-in, the Molineux faithful will be more than hopeful that they can drag themselves up the table, instead condemning one of their fellow strugglers to contemplate their Premiership futures. West Brom certainly have a tough run of fixtures, and with Arsenal, Liverpool, Sunderland, Chelsea and Tottenham their next five opponents, Wolves will be hoping that their relatively easier run will see them leapfrog Roy Hodgson's outfit, having already been put through a similar run of fixtures this season. The Premier League odds indicate they have every chance of doing so.

Wolves however, have no more fixtures against any of the top six, and with their opposition consisting mainly of relegation candidates and mid-table ditherers, McCarthy will be quietly confident of accruing sufficient points to see that they enter the development stage of the proposed expansion and redevelopment of their famous stadium as a top-tier outfit.

Following their impressive showing against Spurs on their last Premier League outing, the Wolves fans must believe that they can get something from their next encounter – a local derby against Gerard Houllier's Villa side – and if they do then they will be well on their way to celebrating a third consecutive term dining at the top table of English football.

Robbed: Wolves 3 Tottenham 3

2011-03-07T14:19:00.000Z

How many great games have we seen this season? The entertainment keeps getting better and better, as do the results.

We kept the momentum from last weeks win going, and probably deserved more than the solitary point we got. Who knows what would have happened if Alan Hutton had been given the red card he deserved?

It was a fantastic game for all, a fitting tribute to the late Dean Richards but I still can't help feeling robbed. Not only the incident with Hutton, but the fact that we had a perfectly good goal disallowed. Halsey, the ref, has a clear view of the "foul" where Gomes grabs Stearman by the neck, and lets the ball slip into the net. Unbelievable.

The tempo we played at was quite something, we didn't let Spurs play at all and were just as much threatening going forward as they were. The return to form of Matthew Jarvis was a key part of that, Hutton had absolutely no idea what to do with him. He has had problems before with Jarvis, earlier this season and at home to Sunderland on the final day of the season (where he conceded a penalty). On the opposite flank we have a winger in Hammill who reminds me of Michael Kightly a lot. Tricky on the ball, an excellent cross and the desire to win the ball back once it is lost. He can only get better, one would think.

When Mick threw on the two forwards, changing to a four two four formation I was worried. Credit to the manager, it worked perfectly and we rarely looked over run in the midfield. That was partly down to skipper Karl Henry, who was my man of the match by some distance. He did the work of two men in thee middle, allowing a tired Nenad Milijas to do his stuff further forward. People laughed at him being a potential England player, but a performance like that just shows why Fabio Capello likes him.

Hennessey - 6

Foley - 7
Stearman - 7
Berra - 7
Elokobi - 8

Hammill - 7
Henry - 9
Ward - 7
Milijas -8
Jarvis - 8

Doyle - 8

Subs: Ebanks-Blake - 7, Fletcher - 7

It's a performance like that, with heart and hunger that makes you proud to be a Wolf.

We get a more than deserved two week rest now, with four tough games coming up. Perhaps we should be more confident then, as we certainly have a knack of picking up unexpected points.

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur
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Prediction League: Chance to win a signed Wolves football!

2011-03-03T18:11:00.000Z

So, another week of predicting and still plenty of time with twists and turns still to come.

This weeks top scorer is leroythewolf, well done that man!

It's easy to get involved, just copy the fixtures below and post your predictions with scorers.

Here are the fixtures:

Birmingham v West Brom
Arsenal v Sunderland
Bolton v Aston Villa
Fulham v Blackburn
Newcastle v Everton
West Ham v Stoke
Man City v Wigan
Liverpool v Man utd
Wolves v Tottenham
Blackpool v Chelsea

Predict away!

Wolves 4 Blackpool 0

2011-02-27T17:21:00.001Z

I must admit I was worried before this game.

Would this be another game where we muck it up against a team near us? Would it be another one of those days where nothing goes in? Would it hell!

We dominated Blackpool from start to finish, positive from the start. It was a sign of things that O'Hara decided to set off from the kick off. Much better than the usual roll back to Hennessey.

And it was that man who was at the centre of everything good for us. Jamie O'Hara is really making an impact. Not only can he create shoot and dribble, he's a willing runner who covers a lot of the pitch.

Super sub SEB made it six for the season

I was disappointed to see Nenad Milijas drop to the bench, but I could see why Mick had done it. Dave Edwards was excellent today, offering us a lot going forward and of course defending from the front. He was unlucky not to get a goal too.

Our captain has endured a tough time recently, but I thought this was him at his best. He got in plenty of challenges, and kept the ball moving. He went about his business quietly but got the job done.

It's important that we keep this momentum going, with one defeat in four and seven points out of twelve. We face Tottenham in a weeks time who will surely have one eye on their Champions league game with AC Milan.

Savour this victory because it's not often we win by four!

Prediction League: Chance to win a signed Wolves football!

2011-02-24T11:46:00.000Z

As there was only one game, there was of course very few points scored but that didn't stop movement in the table!

Bob China takes the lead at the top by ONE point, while HilpertonianSwindon closed the gap on the top few.

There are a full set of fixtures this week, so I expect plenty of points.

Aston Villa v Blackburn
Everton v Sunderland
Newcastle v Bolton
Wigan v Man Utd
Wolves v Blackpool
West Ham v Liverpool
Man City v Fulham
Stoke v West Brom

Good luck.

Capello's a fan of Henry, and it isn't Thierry.

2011-02-22T12:56:00.003Z

Isn’t it funny how at the time of getting the most stick he has ever received for poor performances, it come out that the

England

manager is the fan of his?

Karl Henry obviously hasn’t been at his best since he returned from a lengthy injury, he even said it himself, but people have stopped realising the important job he does.

Lucas - most underated player in the league?

With players like Nenad Milijas and Jamie O’Hara, you NEED someone who will sit, cover and win the ball back. In the modern day it is one of the most important, yet underrated positions. Every team has one, and even in the best teams that players is not given much credit. John Obi Mikel, Michael Carrick and Lucas Leiva (who Robbie Savage reckons he is better than) are all criminally underrated just because they pass sideways or backwards more often than not.

Why is this? Because the fans want to see that killer pass, and when a player like Karl Henry rolls it back to the centre backs that therefore means his passing is apparently crap. Now, he does do a shocking pass every now and then but that’s probably because he is being urged to go forward!

Fabio Capello has now taken notice of two of our players, naming Henry and Matty Jarvis in provisional squads and I wonder if any others will get recognition any time soon.

In Richard Stearman we have someone who learnt the hard way since joining the top flight. He has made stupid mistakes, but since the turn of the year he has been one of our best players. He has formed a solid partnership with Christophe Berra and has the quality on the ball that you need at international level. He has put in some excellent performances in front of Capello, and with a bit more consistency he may have a chance over the next few years.

Now for my more controversial pick. Sylvan Ebanks-Blake. I’m not saying he is good enough for that level, we don’t really know yet but Sylvan is one good goal scoring streak away from being noticed. There was talk of it when we were in the Championship, and he is a much better footballer now. He’s still young so if he gets a run in our team at some point and the goals start flowing who knows?

Disagree? I’m sure a lot of you will! Post a comment on which Wolves players you think could receive an England call up in the next year or so.

A point gained?

2011-02-21T11:51:00.001Z

It was all too predictable.

After a first half performance where we controlled the play, kept the ball and frustrated the Albion crowd we threw it all away in the stoppage time.

You have to wonder why, if it had worked so well to keep the ball, the players defended so deep in the second half despite the manager's instructions to push forward.

While it was gut-wrenching to concede that late goal by Vela (another reason to hate Arsenal) I still think it is a decent point away from home. We had only taken four points on our travels this season before yesterday, and I would definitely have taken a point had it been offered to me at twelve o'clock.

What we have to do is move on and look to the game on Saturday with Blackpool. This is a game we need to win, if anything to prove that we can beat those around us and get ourselves out of this mess. If we stick with the same formation, maybe bring in a player or two, then I think we will win.

My worry is, we bring in another striker and lump the ball forward as we always seem to do with an extra forward. With two wingers, we can tear the Blackpool defence apart.

When we went to Bloomfield Road we were desperately unlucky to come away with nothing. We hammered them for nearly all of the game and it was probably one of the most one sided games I have seen this season. Blackpool scored a wonder goal and a silly corner, but luck is no longer on their side and their form has deteriorated.

There is still a long way to go, we must not hit the panic button.

It's back (at last)

2011-02-18T18:15:00.000Z

The time has come.

The two derby games against West Brom could prove to be crucial this season, and the game on Sunday could prove to be season defining.

It could turn out to be a good thing that this game was postponed back in December. The Baggies were sitting comfortably in mid table, with a manager that looked destined for greater things. But fast-forward less than two months and everything has changed for them.

Bothroyd got the winner in 2007

Di Matteo sacked, not a clean sheet in twenty four games and three wins out of the last nineteen. Before last Saturday, they turned to the next two games to revive their season and threw away a three nil lead in the first one against West Ham. With Roy Hodgson now in charge, they will look to tighten the defence but at a cost. They won't be seen as entertainers any more. I'm not convinced that he is the right man for them, a couple of early bad results and the pressure will be on them.

For the first time in years, we finally seem to be playing West Brom on a level playing field. I genuinely think we have a better squad, with better players and players more likely to come out on top in a derby. When you look through the Albion team, they lack a leader and miss Mulumbu this week through injury, which will be a huge loss for them. Players like Berra, Zubar, O'Hara, Henry and Milijas have all played in huge derbies at previous clubs or with us in Henry's case.That experience will be huge for us.

The only change could be Kevin Foley in for Zubar, but only because he is doubtful for the game. If you are looking at tactical changes, Mick might sacrifice quality for running and bring Dave Edwards in for Nenad Milijas or Jamie O'Hara.

Hennessey

Zubar
Stearman
Berra
Elokobi

Hammill
Henry
Milijas
Jarvis

O'Hara

Doyle

I think it will be a cagey affair, it is a huge game for both teams and while I'd like to see us attack their fragile defence I would be happy with a point. A win by two goals would see us leapfrog them in the table, but I'm plumping for a low-scoring draw. 1-1

Prediction League: Chance to win a signed Wolves football!

2011-02-17T16:41:00.000Z

There wasn't too many points scored last week, but still a couple of changes in the table.

Wolfie takes the lead at the top, while Merlin leapfrogged Wolves1992.

There is only one game this weekend, and I think we all know which one it is.

As the Black Country Derby is the only game, you get triple points for the game.

Good luck.

Slapped: Arsenal 2 Wolves 0

2011-02-13T20:27:00.001Z

Wolves were taught a real lesson by easily the best team we have faced this season.

I left the Emirates not as disappointed as usual after defeat because really, they were simply too good for us. At their best, they are unplayable and we should be glad we only lost two nil.

Stearman improves with every game

Much of that was thanks to Wayne Hennessey, who gets better every week. Apart from once, he dominated his area well and some of the saves he made were stunning. I wonder if Arsene Wenger will be targeting him in the summer?

We never threatened their goal until the last ten minutes, when the game was practically over. We seem to have a settled defence now, we need to focus on getting goals. Richard Stearman and Christophe Berra have formed a very good understanding at the back, and although our full backs were at times torn apart I thought they were OK. Zubar grew as the game went on, and was one of our biggest threats going forward.

Our best outfield player? Probably Karl Henry. He looked very classy on the ball, keeping it for us and getting it to the creative players like O'Hara and Milijas. He also covered well, and against players like Jack Wilshere and Cesc Fabregas he did alright.

Hennessey - 9

Zubar - 8
Stearman - 7
Berra - 7
Elokobi - 6

Hammill - 7
Milijas - 7
O'Hara - 6
Henry - 8
Jarvis - 6

Doyle - 7

Subs: Ebanks-Blake - 6, Foley - 7, Fletcher - 6

I was in today's verdict in the sport section of the observer. Here's my part:

It was a bit of an anticlimax after last week's win over United. We didn't do too much going forward until the last 10 minutes but the game was over at that stage. It was the right team that started for us and I don't think we played that badly but Arsenal were just really good. They were on another level, especially Wilshere and Fábregas. Hennessey made some fantastic saves and Henry had a good game too. We're bottom of the table now and we've two massive games coming up against Blackpool and West Brom. We need to get four points from those.

You can see that here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/feb/12/arsenal-wolves-premier-league

That horrible set of fixtures is over now, and this is the time to start picking up the vital points against teams around us. It's a tough game, as they always are, away at Albion but after their defensive performance at home to West Ham I'm confident we can pick something up.

Keep the ball

2011-02-11T17:31:00.000Z

If we are going to go and get something at the Emirates tomorrow, we can't afford to go there and defend all out.

Teams who have gone to Arsenal and not gone there with ten men behind the ball have reaped their rewards. Albion, Newcastle and Tottenham have all come away with three points by having a go at them.

When we went to Chelsea and Manchester United, and beat Manchester City we looked like a top class team because we retained possession so well. Our last two performances have indicated that we are starting to do that again, which is why I am positive about this game.
After letting slip a four nil lead last week, the Arsenal players will be desperate to impress the home crowd and the longer we can frustrate them and keep it level the more desperate they will become.

If there is one thing I expect, it's a good performance from Karl Henry. Our skipper was sent off, extremely harshly, in this fixture last year and will be looking to prove his critics wrong. He could be key in this game, because he keeps the ball as well as anyone in our team.

A three pronged attack of Jarvis, Hammill and Doyle should cause the Arsenal defence headaches. Out of their defence only Sagna seems consistent and Kevin Doyle will always be a match for their two centre backs, whoever is playing.

I hope and think we will go with the same side, as it's a system that I think can keep us up.

I'm dreaming of a Karl Henry winner, but I expect a close defeat.

If you are going, have a great time and roar on the lads.

Prediction League: Chance to win a signed Wolves football!

2011-02-10T17:20:00.000Z

There were plenty of points to be won with two sets of fixtures being predicted and there was plenty of movement in the table. Bob China moves to the top of the table, with Wolfie taking second place and Old Beaut moving up to third which meant Wolves1992 dropped to fourth!

There is still plenty of time left to predict. All you have to do is copy the fixture list I give you and put your prediction score and scorers.

Fixtures:

To see full table go to prediction league page

Man United v Man City
Arsenal v Wolves
Birmingham v Stoke
Blackburn v Newcastle
Blackpool v Aston Villa
Liverpool v Wigan
West Brom v West Ham
Sunderand v Tottenham
Bolton v Everton
Fulham v Chelsea

Good luck!

Interview with Robbo

2011-02-09T19:05:00.001Z

A couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to have some questions answered by ex-Wolves midfielder Carl Robinson.

Carl played for us between 1995 and 2002, making over 150 appearances. Since leaving us for Portsmouth, he has since played for Sunderland (winning the Championship with Mick McCarthy), Norwich, Toronto FC and he now lines up alongside Thierry Henry after signing for New York Red Bulls last year.

First of all, how is your football going in America?
Football is going very well at the moment and we have just started pre-season training for the upcoming year. As always pre-season is tough but very much needed to get to the levels of fitness needed to play throughout the year.

How did you come about to playing in the States?
I moved to New York last year after asking to leave. Moving to North America was a massive decision for me but one I have never regretted. The way of life there is fantastic and very relaxed.

The MLS is not considered by many as a high-quality league, but you see it (and play it) first hand. Is it improving all the time, or is it simply underrated?
It's a tough league and you have to be able to adapt to the way they play. Lots of players from the UK have come over and failed to adjust. One a one off day, MLS players can compete with Premiership teams but it is the consistency that maybe is the difference.

Do you have any plans to go into coaching or any other area of football?
I am set to complete my UEFA 'A' License while still playing football.I aim to go onto be a manager when I finish playing football.

How do you remember your time at Wolves, are you still in contact with anyone from your Wolves days? And who were you best mates at the time?
I remember my Wolves time fondly, I had some excellent times as well as some hard times.I don't really speak to many there now but I still keep a close eye on their results. I had a great group of friends there including George Ndah, Robbie Keane and Dougie Freedman.

You played under Mick McCarthy at Sunderland (winning the Championship). I've never heard any of his players badmouth hi, after being dropped or sold. Why is this?
Mick is without doubt the best manager I have ever worked with. He has so much respect from players due to his honesty. That's all you want from anyone and Mick is spot on with that.He is a players manager band knows how to get the best out of them! Train the way you play is a key thing for him.

Who is the best player you have have played with? And anyone you have come up against that sticks out?
The best player I have played with is Ryan Giggs, natural ability and so much skill. He's also a top guy. A player who I hated playing against was Bastien Shweinsteiger, different class.

Finally, what is the best prank you have ever seen by a player or even yourself?!
Some of the pranks are too crude to print, but the old ones of stripping the boys on their birthdays and making them run back at training was always a classic. That was in the olden days though!

Carl has his own website at robbo33.com and you can follow him on twitter.

Wolves must strive for consistency

2011-02-09T17:56:00.001Z

Wolves shocked the majority of English football with their win over Manchester United and their chairman reckons more performances of the same will ensure they avoid Premier League relegation.

The midlands club have struggled so far this season but defied the odds to defeat the United at Molineux on Saturday, with goals from George Elokobi and Kevin Doyle ensuring the Red Devils' unbeaten record came to an end.

Wolves have shown at times this season how dangerous they can be as they have also defeated Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea and anyone looking to bet on Premier League game s will have learned that the side are more than capable of causing an upset.

But it has been results against lesser teams where they have been shown up and they have struggled to secure any real consistency, meaning they still sit in the Premier League relegation places. However, the football betting suggests a tight finish to the season, and Wolves have every chance of escaping.

Wolves chairman Steve Morgan has stated that fans should not be "overly surprised" by the United result as anyone who has watched Mick McCarthy's side has seen some "fantastic football" throughout the season.

He claims the side can beat the drop if they can build on the confidence coming from their win.

Morgan stated: "We've got to build on that from now on. It's in our hands. If we show the same spirit that we showed (against United) we'll be absolutely fine."

Wolves defender Christophe Berra has declared it has been a "crazy" season for the club so far and he has issued a rallying cry for his colleagues to be more consistent if they want to avoid Premier League relegation come the end of the campaign.

Wolves must use United win as platform

2011-02-08T20:54:00.000Z

There are many times in a season you hear somebody talking about the latest ‘turning point’ for a team. For Wolves though, it is essential that the recent win over Manchester United is a sign of things to come.

Let’s get the praise out of the way first – it was a fantastic performance from Wolves and an extraordinary result. Not many football betting pundits would have picked out Mick McCarthy’s men to end the Red Devils’ unbeaten run after all.

Any three points is important, but the fact is that a victory over West Ham last month would have been a lot more valuable. Even Kevin Doyle said after the game that he would rather be picking up points against teams nearer Wolves in the league.

This takes nothing away from Saturday’s win – it was a fantastic day for the club. Wolves have been here before though. Chelsea were defeated last month and three points were obtained against Liverpool just after Christmas.

What was the reaction to these excellent wins? After Liverpool it was a 2-0 defeat to West Ham. After Chelsea, well the Manchester United game on Saturday was the first win since then.

If Wolves are to survive this season, they can’t just rely on raising their game for the big games. It is a good trait to have of course and another shock against Arsenal this weekend would be more than welcome.

It is the two games that follow that which are more important though. Wolves must take the spirit of the Manchester United win into the games against West Brom and Blackpool and do everything they can to get positive results.

Then, the games against Arsenal and Tottenham either side of these two games become bonus fixtures, any points gained are ones you don’t expect.

One thing the United win has done, as well as lift everyone’s spirits, is give the team a fighting chace of survival. More than that in fact. Many more football bets will be placed on Wolves being a Premier League team next year after the weekend.

It is time for a purple patch in form though. Not just a big win here and there, but a consistent run of points. Wolves can’t afford to be cast adrift of safety again as there is limited time to bounce back.

We have reached the now or never stage of the season as far as Wolves are concerned.

Show us what you have got.

Wolves v Man Utd Preview

2011-02-04T18:42:00.000Z

After our third defeat on the run at Bolton, you'd be forgiven for thinking we are going to make it four for the third time this season against league leaders Manchester United.

Still unbeaten, and playing better each game. There was even the hint that Wayne Rooney was finally returning to form in their game against Aston Villa. This Man United is a dangerous one, with several match-winners to change the game.

I hope that we will stick to the 451 we used against Bolton. With more men in the middle of midfield, we passed the ball around much better and with the return of Nenad Milijas to the line up we will have the class to perform even better.

We need an assured performance from Zubar

Another midfielder I expect to come in is Jamie O'Hara. He looked lively when he came on and produced a Milijas-Esq pass for Doyle when he hit the post in the last match. A trio of Him, Henry and Milijas is a more than capable midfield with two good outlets in Hammill and Jarvis to feed the ball.

The defence? I'd wouldn't be surprised if we stick with the same one we used on Wednesday. If there will be a change, I think it might be Elokobi. Stephen Ward is capable there, but I reckon Mick might move Zubar there. Kevin Foley is fit, and he's too good to leave out so he needs to be restored at right back.

That would mean this team:

Hennessey

Foley
Stearman
Berra
Zubar

Hammill
Henry
O'Hara
Milijas
Jarvis

Doyle

If you are going, get behinds the leads and have a great time.

Perfect Scenario: Zubar scoring the winner.

I'm going for a narrow defeat. 1-2

Ronald Rues

2011-02-03T16:43:00.000Z

Even a day after Ronald Zubar's horrible mistake, I'm still in shock. Maybe I should expect this, as that seemed to sum up our season.

We put in a good strong performance, starting with 451 which I thought was the correct choice. With Edwards in the attacking midfield, we had enough going forward wand looked a threat on the flanks. Particularly Adam Hammill, who looks like someone who can produce that bit of magic for us when we need it. Let's hope that is the case.

I thought the core of our defence, the two centre backs and keeper, were excellent. All communicating well and doing well against Kevin Davies and Johan Elmander. Our two full backs, were just plain awful all night. Every single back pass from Zubar was shocking, it even nearly cost us a goal in the first half too and Elokobi just didn't look up to it. Rewind a few weeks to the Chelsea game, they were our best players and that just shows what we desperately need.

Consistency.

Kevin Foley has to come in at right back, but I don't think he will drop Zubar. I wouldn't be surprised if Elokobi is the one dropped and Zubar is shifted to the left. From now on, if we can get the same team week in week out then we can finally get a run of form and push ourselves up the table.

I was disappointed to see Nenad Milijas on the bench, I just hope he was being rested. He's been our best player this season, and hopefully with him and Jamie O'Hara in the side we will be looking at a full strength side.

Kevin Doyle was outstanding, probably our best outfield player. We know about his tireless work rate, and hold up play. He does it every week and it' often goes unnoticed. Yesterday he was at the centre of everything we created. If we can make enough chance for us I;m sure he can get the goals we need.

Hennessey - 8

Zubar - 5
Stearman - 7
Berra - 7
Elokobi - 5

Hammill -7
Jones - 7
Henry - 7
Edwards - 7
Jarvis - 6

Doyle - 8

A West Ham win put us back in bottom place, but we can not afford to panic. We face Manchester United on Saturday, and it would sum us up if we could bounce back and get something out of it.

Bolton v Wolves Preview

2011-02-01T11:16:00.000Z

Wolves go to Bolton in desperate need of some points, after three defeats in four.

A moment of magic from Elmander killed us at Molineux

Bolton will also be looking at this game as a chance to regain confidence, they haven't won in five after their impressive start in Owen Coyle's first full season. Their recent form probably comes down to a lack of numbers, they have a thin squad and at one point were only able to name four players on the bench.

With 4-4-2 clearly not working at the moment, I expect us to go with five in midfield. It's what kept us up last season, and brought us some very good performances earlier on in this one. Jamie O'Hara will probably have to settle for place on the bench, so I expect David Edwards to come in for Steven Fletcher. In an away game, Edwards is perfect. He will shut down the opposition, and make late bursting runs to get in the box.

O'Hara is only just back from an injury

Bolton have been very much a 4-4-2 team this season. Fabrice Muamba and Stuart Holden have been in great form for them this season, but someone who has caught the eye since finally regaining fitness is ex-Wolf Mark Davies. Every time I have seen him play this season he has been influential in their play, and it really looks like a mistake that we let him go for so little. He is someone I expect to be pushing for an England call up in the near future.

Many Wolves fans will be disappointed that we have strengthened at the back, and with our goals against record you can hardly blame them. However, if we can get our strongest defence together consistently I think we can sort that out. I have a feeling Jody Craddock will come in, he was a huge part of our defensive successes last season and he can do it again. George Elokobi returned from suspension against Stoke, and will probably start at left back.

I can see us lining up like this:

Hennessey

Zubar
Craddock
Berra
Elokobi

Hammill
Edwards
Henry
Milijas
Jarvis

Doyle

That is a team very capable of getting something, even against a strong team at home like Bolton.

I'd take a draw, and I reckon that's what we'll get.

O'Hara signs for Wolves

2011-01-30T16:36:00.001Z

At least some good news came out of today.

Wolves completed the loan signing of Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara after the poor defeat to Stoke. I like this signing, I think he will add more bite and creativity to our midfielder. I like the idea of him and Milijas next to each other, with Henry holding. That's a good enough midfield for sure.

And yes, I think we need to play five midfielders now. We just don't get the ball down when we play two up front, and our worst performances this season have come with making the switch to two strikers.

And yes our summer signing Steven Fletcher might be warming the bench, but he's a good back up to have if Kevin Doyle gets injured.

This might not be the end of our business in the transfer window either. I'm sure we are still looking for a defender, which we could do with. I don't think the Woodgate deal is over either, as he will probably be told he's not going to be getting games.