Wolverhampton Wanderers clinched all three points in their last league fixture as they constructed a handsome 0-3 away win at the Elland Road against Leeds United. Nuno Espirito Santo will be readying his troops once again as they are scheduled to face Aston Villa at the Villa Park on Saturday.
Wolverhampton Wanderers: Team News
Ruben Neves has completed his two-match suspension as it due to making his return and it goes without saying that his comeback would be a major boost for his side.
The fixture promises to be a sensational one and here is how we expect Espirito Santo to dish out his starting line-up against the Villans.
Goalkeeper
John Ruddy remains as the first-choice custodian for Wolves and there is no denying that he has been exceptionally brilliant under the bar this season. The 31-year-old shot-stopper has notched up 18 clean sheets from 35 appearances in the English second tier so far this season and would be aiming to save the blushes of his side against the Lions.
Defence
Against Paul Heckingbottom’s troops, Espirito Santo used Danny Batth in his backline instead of Ryan Bennett and the defender did manage to manoeuvre a great outing. Batth dealt meticulously with almost everything that was thrown at him and it is likely that he would be getting yet another start under his belt. Willy Boly and Connor Coady are also expected to be stationed at the back to form a three-man defensive wall.
Wingbacks
While Matt Doherty is anticipated to keep his place at the right-wingback slot, Barry Douglas remains as the best option for the left-wingback position. These two wingbacks are set to get the green light to start by Espirito Santo and would be tasked with the responsibilities of galloping forward to join their teammates in the attacking endeavours and to also cater to their own defensive duties.
Midfield
With Neves back amidst the scheme of things, we expect him to be pencilled in the middle of the park at the expense of Roamin Saiss as it would be quite absurd to dethrone Alfred N’Diaye from the starting XI. N’Diaye was stupendous against the Whites and certainly deserves to start in the upcoming fixture once again.
Attack
Ivan Cavaleiro is expected to start from the left-wing once again to offer his attacking prowess whereas, from the other flank, we anticipate that Diogo Jota would be getting the nod to start. Leo Bonatini’s stuttering displays up front of late implies that Espirito Santo might hand Benik Afobe to lead the line against Steve Bruce’s side.