Wolves player ratings vs Sheffield United: Fringe players impress as Wanderers ease into FA Cup round four

By Ben Ramsdale

Football Journalist

Published 9th Jan 2022, 20:00 GMT

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Bruno Lage fielded a strong Wolves side in round three

Wolverhampton Wanderers eased into round four of the FA Cup with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Championship side Sheffield United.

Bruno Lage had promised ahead of the game that he would be taking the competition seriously and he stayed true to his word by fielding a near full strength line-up for the contest.

Goalkeeper John Ruddy was the only notable ‘back-up’ player in the XI whilst Fabio Silva made just his third start of the season.

It was an impressive professional-style performance from the black & gold who were awarded a home tie against fellow Premier League side Norwich City in round four.

Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates with teammates Francisco Trincao, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Raul Jimenez after scoring their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United — Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates with teammates Francisco Trincao, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Raul Jimenez after scoring their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United | Getty Images

Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates with teammates Francisco Trincao, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Raul Jimenez after scoring their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United — Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates with teammates Francisco Trincao, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Raul Jimenez after scoring their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United | Getty Images

John Ruddy - 8

A really solid performance from the back-up. Deserves to keep his place for the next round.

Max Kilman - 8

You know what you’re getting at this point. Top, top centre-back.

Conor Coady - 8

Captain fantastic of late. Seeing him rumble a kid after the full-time whistle that was asking for his shirt despite having a Raul Jimenez sign was his highlight, though.

Marcal - 6

Replaced at half-time as a ‘precaution’ - didn’t look too comfortable at centre-back.

Nelson Semedo - 8.5

A first goal of the season for the right-wing-back who appears to be improving every game he plays. He’s becoming a key player for the black & gold.

Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers scores their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United at Molineux — Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers scores their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United at Molineux | Getty Images

Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers scores their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United at Molineux — Nelson Semedo of Wolverhampton Wanderers scores their team's second goal during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United at Molineux | Getty Images

Rayan Ait-Nouri - 8

Provided the assist for his wing-back partner and just like Semedo, seems to be getting better and better.

Leander Dendoncker - 6

Was provided with a great opportunity to give Lage a midfield selection headache moving forward but failed to take the chance.

Ruben Neves - 7.5

Just does everything so effortlessly. Needs to stay at Molineux this month.

Adama Traore - 6

Had a classic Traore moment in front of goal. Spurned a great one-on-one chance after being played through by Fabio Silva.

Fabio Silva - 9*

After an exciting 10 minute cameo at Old Trafford he got his start against Sheffield United and repaid his manager’s faith. His all round game was superb and provided the assist for the opener in the 14th minute. My man-of-the-match.

Daniel Podence - 9

Backed up his performance at Manchester United with another fantastic one on Sunday. Two goals to his name and looks full of confidence right now.

Subs

Joao Moutinho - 7

Wolves looked far more comfortable once he was introduced at half-time.

Raul Jimenez - 7

Came on with 20 minutes to go and got an assist to his name. Still needs a goal for his own confidence boost.

Francisco Trincao - 7

Helped the lads with his energy following his introduction.

Luke Cundle - N/A

Came on with a few minutes to go.

Bruno Jordao - N/A

As above.

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Fabio Silva Bruno Lage Sheffield United Wanderers Wolves

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