Wolverhampton Wanderers are in action for their fifth-to-last Premier League fixture of the season as they take on AFC Bournemouth at Molineux on Wednesday evening.
The Old Gold were beaten 2-0 by Arsenal last time out but there was plenty to be proud of as a thread-bare side went toe-to-toe - for much of the game at least - against title challengers. Another challenge awaits thougthis time it’s a far more winnable fixture, with fellow mid-table side Bournemouth in town.
The Cherries visited Wolves’ local rivals Aston Villa at the weekend, taking the lead through a Dominic Solanke penalty but losing 3-1 after a stunning home comeback. Andoni Iraola’s side may not have been at their best on Sunday however they’ve certainly impressed this season as one of the division’s most improved sides.
Many would argue Wolves and Bournemouth could both be placed firmly in that category, making this clash an exciting one. What adds to it further is the manner in which the Cherries replaced O’Neil with Iraola in the summer. You could even suggest this is a bit of a grudge match for Wanderers’ head coach.
How, then, could Wolves line up as they look to move into the Premier League top 10 with a victory? Including a starting return for a £9.8 million wing-back and a decision made for injury doubt Matheus Cunha, here’s the XI we predict will face Bournemouth.
1. GK - Jose Sa
Sa is without a clean sheet since the 1-0 win over Brighton in the FA Cup. He’ll be determined to get a shut-out on the board sooner rather than later.
2. RWB - Matt Doherty
Doherty has enjoyed increased game time of late due to injuries. Nelson Semedo could have an involvement midweek but a start is improbable.
3. CB - Max Kilman
The skipper was brilliant against Arsenal as he gave the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard and Martin Odegaard a tough time physically.
4. CB - Santiago Bueno
Bueno has been the man called upon in the absence of experienced defender Craig Dawson. That’s expected to continue for a while longer.