After their 1-2 away win against Middlesbrough in their last Championship fixture, Wolverhampton Wanderers are due to entertain Hull City at the Molineux Stadium on Tuesday. The Wolves will be aiming to strengthen their grip at the top of the league standings but Nuno Espirito Santo is expected to be bereft of the services of some of his key players.
Wolverhampton Wanderers Team News
Matt Doherty and Ruben Neves received red cards against Middlesbrough and both of them will be suspended for Tuesday’s fixture. Meanwhile, Diogo Jota, Helder Costa and Romain Saiss are also doubtful for the clash against the Tigers as all of them are struggling with injuries after their trip to the Riverside Stadium.
Here is how we expect the Wolves to start against Nigel Adkins’ men.
Goalkeeper
John Ruddy is expected to make a start between the sticks once again for Espirito Santo’s side. The 31-year-old custodian has been stupendous this season as he has collected 19 clean sheets from 39 appearances in the Championship and has made 1.82 saves per game on an average.
Defence
Wolves’ back line has been rock-solid this season and a three-man defensive wall comprising of Ryan Bennett, Conor Coady and Willy Boly is expected to be stationed once again. The defenders have worked well as a unit, managed to be resilient more often than not and these three defenders, in particular, have dazzled.
Wingbacks
Doherty’s absence will be felt and there is no denying that. The right-wingback offers creativity and opening down the right and has contributed heavily to the attacking endeavours of the Wolves. In the upcoming fixture, Ruben Vinagre might be given the nod to take Doherty’s place. From the left-wingback slot, Barry Douglas is expected to start.
Midfield
Neves’ absence has a straightforward answer as Alfred N’Diaye is seemingly likely to be called up to render his services. N’Diaye has impressed during most of the opportunities he has been handed by Espirito Santo this season and it would make a lot of sense if he comes into the starting XI.
Meanwhile, just in case Saiss is unable to regain his fitness, Danny Batth might get the green light to start from Espirito Santo. Batth has truckloads of experience under his belt and considering the defensive edge that he offers, he will be a good option to partner N’Diaye in the central midfield.
Attack
Ivan Cavaleiro found the back of the net against the Smoggies and he is expected to keep his place at the left-wing. While Benik Afobe might start as the striker once again, Espirito Santo might give Morgan Gibbs-White the chance to showcase his calibre from the right-wing if Costa remains unfit.
