Wolverhampton Wanderers strengthened their grip on the top spot in the Championship table after bagging all three points against Ipswich Town. The Wolves have 65 points to their name from 29 league fixtures and have a healthy lead of 11 points over second-placed Derby County.
On Saturday, they are due to host Sheffield United in the next league fixture and at the onset, it promises to be a nail-biting match. Here is how Nuno Espirito Santo might roll out his starting line-up against Chris Wilder’s troops.
Defence
John Ruddy has been exceptional between the sticks for Espirito Santo’s side. The 31-year-old has mustered 16 clean sheets from 29 games and is likely to get yet another start under his belt. Ahead of him, we expect to see a three-man defensive wall comprising of Ryan Bennett, Willy Boly and Conor Coady.
Wolves boast of a strong backline and they have really been resilient, to say the least. They have leaked just 22 goals in 29 matches they have played in the Championship, making them the side to have conceded the fewest amount of goals. Sheffield United are also very much in the race to finish inside the top-six spots and would pose a serious challenge to Espirito Santo’s defence.
Wingbacks
Matt Doherty has been in sublime form and scored the solitary goal in Wolverhampton Wanderers’ 0-1 away win at the Portman Road against Ipswich Town last weekend. He is likely to be pencilled in the right-wingback position as his industry and attacking prowess is proving to be beneficial to his employers. Barry Douglas is expected to keep his left-wingback spot.
Midfield
Ruben Neves and Romain Saiss might be teamed up once again in the middle of the park. Alfred N’Diaye was chalked alongside Neves when Wolves entertained the Tractor Boys but this weekend, Saiss is expected to pave his way into the starting line-up.
Attack
Wolves were quick to lure Rafael Mir to the Molineux Stadium in the January transfer window and the newcomer might get the nod to lead Espirito Santo’s attacking arsenal to add some spice up front. Mir is a player of notable calibre and deserves to get a start to showcase what he is capable of.
From the left-wing, Diogo Jota is likely to start and continue his fine form, having smashed 11 goals and registered 4 assists already in the league this season. Helder Costa should keep his place on the right-wing to showcase his attacking prowess.
