Wolves hero hails ‘outstanding’ defender and hopes he stays at Molineux for years

Wolves hero Andy Thompson hopes Ladislav Krejci will remain at Molineux for years to come after his impressive recent form.

Krejci was heavily linked with a move away following Wolves’ Premier League relegation, but the central defender stayed and has been instrumental in their six-game unbeaten run.

The 27-year-old scored in the victory over Cardiff City before playing a key role in the comeback win at Bristol City, providing an assist, and impressing again at Wrexham last Saturday.

Wolves legend Thompson believes the Czech defender is now showing exactly why the club were so keen to keep him.

Speaking on the Express & Star’s Wolves podcast, he said: “I thought that Krejci was outstanding (at Wrexham). This is the reason that we kept on him.

“He orchestrated everything at the back. He was shouting information, shouting out wide to Jackson Tchatchoua about pushing up, trying to getting forward, trying to switch that diagonal ball. I thought he was outstanding.

“There’s a reason why we didn’t want him to move and why the club wanted to keep him. He looks like such a confident player there, he just cruises through the games.’

“I thought he played really well…and was the best player on the pitch. That was the reason why we wanted him, and I am glad we have. I don’t know for how long, but I am glad he is there. I am hoping that he will be at the club for a number of years.”

Krejci, who captains the Czech Republic, is among seven members of Cesar Peixoto’s Wolves squad currently away on international duty.

Wolves suffered a difficult return from the previous international break, losing consecutive games before turning their form around. Thompson is now hoping the latest two-week pause does not disrupt their momentum.

He added: “I read that last time the players came back from the lengthy international break they were tired and fatigued. There were a few little injuries when they returned too.

“And I think after the Albion win, it was probably the wrong time for us to have the international break.

“Now we are unbeaten in six games heading into this break, I just hope it doesn’t have the same effect when we come back.

“The international break is great for the players who are going to represent their countries, but I just hoping that one they don’t come back fatigued or with injuries, and that we can continue that momentum.

“We have two games at home upon the return, a nice way to come back. You just hope everyone comes back fit and in the right frame of mind.”