Wolverhampton Wanderers will be desperate to get back to winning ways as they lock horns with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park tomorrow afternoon.
Wolves have been one of the most disappointing teams in the league, having picked up just three points in five league matches. They have also lost their last three games in all competitions, with their most recent defeat coming against Braga in the UEFA Europa League.
Here is how Nuno Espirito Santo’s men could line up against the Eagles this weekend.
Formation: 3-5-2
Defence
We could expect one little change in the defence that has looked quite vulnerable this campaign. Ryan Bennett will come into the side to add a bit more stability, at the expense of new loan signing Jesus Vallejo.
The former Norwich defender will be partnered by the ever-present figures of Conor Coady and Willy Boly in the three-man backline. These players will be desperate to help Wolves retain their second clean sheet of the league this season.
Rui Patricio, meanwhile, is a guaranteed starter in between the sticks for the visitors. The Portuguese international even started against Braga in midweek and will start ahead of John Ruddy once again this weekend.
Midfield
Youngster Morgan Gibbs-White might have to settle for a place on the bench after an underwhelming performance against Braga. He will be replaced by the experienced Joao Moutinho, whose presence in the team could be crucial against the likes of Luka Milivojevic and Cheikhou Kouyate.
Moutinho will be partnered by Leander Dendoncker and Ruben Neves, both of who have struggled to influence the midfield. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see how these three midfielders fare against the high press of Palace this weekend.
Elsewhere, Matt Doherty will be replaced by Adama Traore in the right wing-back slot. His pace and tenacity will be useful on the flanks, with Jonny Castro retaining his place on the opposite side. These two are arguably the most important part of the current Wolves setup.
Attack
Patrick Cutrone once again struggled to perform in the last game versus Braga. It’s highly unlikely that the former AC Milan star will retain his place in the side, with Diogo Jota expected to return. The Portuguese star will be accompanied by the main number nine Raul Jimenez, though he will operate in a deeper role.
