‘No stone unturned’ - Wolves star’s verdict on new tactics and training under Julen Lopetegui

Wolverhampton Wanderers youngster Hugo Bueno has opened up on life under Julen Lopetegui having spent a little while under the influence of the new manager. The Spaniard has made quite the breakthrough this season and is continuing to start matches as the Wanderers continue their preparation for the resumption of the Premier League campaign.

Wolves have really struggled this term and Lopetegui has a huge battle on his hands to get his side up and out of the relegation zone, but there is a feeling of optimism within the squad. A lot of this is down to the new head coach’s experience and expertise - as the 56-year-old has managed the likes of Sevilla, Real Madrid and Spain in the past. He also played professionally at a high level as a goalkeeper.

Bueno is one of the players who could become a key cog in a new-look system, but it awaits to be seen how Lopetegui will operate on a competitive basis. From early signs, though, it seems as if everyone will be given their fair share of opportunities to impress. The warm-weather training camp in Marbella has likely been so useful in a period of transition.

“We are working a lot in every training session,” Bueno revealed to Wolves TV. “With our commitment and the tactics the coach said to us, we are in a good way, so the training sessions have been brilliant with all the players. The weather could be better [in Marbella], but the trip has been really, really good for us, for all the squad, to be together is always good.

“I really enjoyed it [playing against Empoli], to be honest. We were a little bit unlucky because we didn’t win it, but I think the team worked really, really hard and I’m happy to help the team with the goal as well. We are enjoying it a lot, we have another game on Wednesday, so we’re thinking of that one,” Bueno said.

As the defender said, Wolves were unfortunate to not win against Empoli last Friday, as they were held to a 1-1 draw. Bueno scored in that game, though, and that is bound to give the 20-year-old some confidence. He may need it as competition is bound to be fierce for a consistent spot in the starting XI.

Wolves have one more friendly fixture before they head home from Spain – against La Liga outfit Cadiz on Wednesday, December 14. The Wanderers then take on Gillingham in the Carabao Cup Round of 16 next Tuesday, before heading away to Everton in the Premier League on Boxing Day.