Wolverhampton Wanderers are back in Premier League action just four days after their last outing as they take on Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Both teams come into the game in contrasting fashion as Wolves won convincingly midweek but Brighton suffered a surprise defeat.
Julen Lopetegui’s side made it three home wins on the bounce on Tuesday as they beat Crystal Palace by two goals to nil. Ruben Neves returned to the starting lineup with a bang, dominating his midfield battles and earning a deserved goal from the penalty spot well into added time.
The Seagulls, meanwhile, looked exhausted as they were outfought by Forest at the City Ground on Wednesday. Facundo Buonanotte opened the scoring for Albion on his first Premier League start but Steve Cooper’s men recovered very well to win 3-1 under the lights in Nottingham.
That result could have a positive impact on Wolves’ chances as they look to hit the 40-point mark with another win. Wanderers have had a busy schedule too but not quite as much so as Brighton, who went the distance in the FA Cup semi final against Manchester United on Sunday.
Wolves have done so well recently that we think Lopetegui will go with a similar team to the one against Palace, but there is a potential change in midfield and attack. With that in mind, here is our predicted starting XI for Saturday.
5. CB - Max Kilman
Has performed consistently well, even when Wanderers have lost games. Means that Nathan Collins stays on the bench. | Getty Images
6. LB - Hugo Bueno
Played brilliantly when he replaced Toti Gomes in the XI and should keep his spot. Looked untouchable earlier in the campaign. | Getty Images
7. CM - Ruben Neves
Was unplayable midweek and will no doubt be the first name on the team sheet right until the end of the season. | Getty Images
8. CM - Mario Lemina
Tough to see Joao Gomes on the bench once again, but Lemina has been superb for Wolves recently. Rarely seems to tire despite working so hard in midfield. | Getty Images