‘It would’ve been silly’ - Gary O’Neil explains ‘concerning’ Wolves substitution vs Brighton

Gary O’Neil has revealed the reason he substituted Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Craig Dawson in the 4-1 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Although the Old Gold were three goals down and a tactical tweak was needed, some fans were left concerned when Dawson was taken off due to his importance in the side.

Formerly of West Bromwich Albion, Watford and West Ham United, the 33-year-old is one of the most experienced members of the Wanderers squad.

The new head coach has nullified any concerns that it was fitness or knock related, while also making it clear it wasn’t due to poor performance levels.

“He was on a yellow card and at 4-1 if he goes in aggressively we lose him at that point,” O’Neil said in the post-match press conference.

“It would’ve been silly [to keep him on]. It protected Daws from playing another half an hour in an aggressive game,” O’Neil continued.

No issue for Dawson, then, as Wolves look ahead to their next Premier League fixture, away at Everton next Saturday.