Wolves start the weekend holding a 6 point lead at the top. They have no threat going into their weekend to win at any cost with the next side Cardiff City down at 67 points. The expensively assembled Wolves side was being linked with names of great stature in the January window as they are expected to qualify for the riches of the English Premier League come May 2018. With the Championship trophy expected to head their way, Wolves were busy in the market with their owners ready to splash the cash to bring in quality players to their squad.
They had started the last weekend holding a solid lead at the top and were up against playoff contenders Fulham. The Wanderers were expected not to have to win however, as they have been excellent this season in top side clashes.
As the match progressed, it turned out to be a frustrating night for the league leaders who were beaten 2-0 on the night. Their weekend frustration has grown even bigger, with Cardiff City stretching their winning run to four games with a 1-0 win over high-flying Bristol City to cut down the lead at the top to 6 points.
With 73 points from after 34 game weeks, the team from Molineux Stadium who entered the New Year at the summit of the table, Wolves be worried about their recent form. They have collected only 11 points from 7 games and are struggling to get wins. However, Wolves will be buoyed by the fact that the last 12 teams to enter the New Year at the top, have all gone on to secure automatic promotion.
Wolves will be looking to produce a fine display of football this weekend against Reading to tighten their spot at the top and leave no chance for the chasing pack.
Here is how he will look to line up his team for the first clash of the New Year.
Formation: 3-4-3
Defence
John Ruddy can be expected in goal for the match. The defensive three is likely to consist of on-loan player Willy Boly, Ryan Bennett and Conor Coady with experienced centre back Danny Batth sitting out.
Midfield
A midfield quartet of Matt Doherty, Barry Douglas, Romain Saiss and Alfred N’Diaye can be expected to fill up the middle of the park for Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Attack
Top scorer Ivan Bonatini who already has 12 goals this season will be expected to continue in the starting line-up. He will be supported by star performer Diogo Jota who also has entered the double digits for the season with 12 goals to his kitty. Helder Costa is expected to be the third attacker on the night.
