Wolverhampton Wanderers are due to make a trip to the Riverside Stadium tomorrow to face Middlesbrough in their next Championship fixture. Nuno Espirito Santo’s men would be aiming to strengthen their grip at the top of the league table but the Boro are no pushovers.
Wolverhampton Wanderers Team News
Diogo Jota is still out with the ankle injury and apart from that, there is no other major concern to mention.
Here is how we expect Wolves to start against Tony Pulis’ entourage.
Goalkeeper
John Ruddy is all set to be handed yet another start under the bar in the Championship fixture. The 31-year-old custodian has garnered 19 clean sheets from 38 games in the league, which is quite outstanding. Besides, he has made 1.82 saves per game on an average and deserves to start as the goalkeeper against the Smoggies.
Defence
Espirito Santo is seemingly likely to roll out a three-man defensive wall yet again. Wolves’ back line has been in a stupendous form more often than not and there is no denying that the resilience that they have showcased has been one of the reasons why they are all set to clinch a promotion to the Premier League. Against Pulis’ men, we expect Ryan Bennett, Conor Coady and Willy Boly to start once again.
Wingbacks
Barry Douglas and Matt Doherty got their debuts for their countries during the international break and they are set to feature from the left and right-wingback slots, respectively. The duo has been quite decent and both of them have managed to knit a fine balance between their defensive duties and offensive endeavours.
Midfield
Romain Saiss and Ruben Neves are anticipated to start from the central midfield to cushion the back line and to dictate the tempo of the game from the middle of the park. Alfred N’Diaye, however, has also been decent this season. Saiss and Neves have a decent chemistry amongst themselves and should do a fine job against the Riversiders.
Attack
Benik Afobe smashed a brace against Burton Albion prior to the commencement of the international break and he is expected to be chalked up top by Espirito Santo. He is a clinical goal-getter, holds the ball well up front and links up well with his teammates in the final third.
From the left-wing, Ivan Cavaleiro would be a sensible option as he has already banged 8 goals and registered 12 assists from 37 league appearances for the Wolves this season. At the right-wing, we expect Helder Costa to start and offer his offensive industry.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored & Squawka
