Wolverhampton Wanderers head out on the road for the penultimate time this season as they take on Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon. Having confirmed survival from relegation with a win over local rivals Aston Villa last weekend, Wolves can play with far less pressure on their shoulders at Old Trafford.
Julen Lopetegui’s side certainly won’t be careless and will still respect their opponents, but there’s likely to be newly-found freedom in their game. United, meanwhile, still have plenty to play for as they are still yet to confirm their qualification for next campaign’s UEFA Champions League.
Wanderers have caught the Red Devils at a good time as they’ve lost their last two matches by one goal to nil. With one or two goals so often being the winning margin when Wolves do claim all three points, this could bring some optimism to the away dugout. As may the fact that United have scored just three goals in their last six outings in all competitions.
Victory on Saturday could soar Lopetegui’s team to as high as 11th in the league standings, whereas United could move them up to third. With the focus very much on the home side this Saturday, we reckon the shackles will be thrown off Wolves somewhat, with a couple of experimental changes. With that in mind, here’s our predicted XI.
5. CB - Max Kilman
Although inconsistent at times, Kilman has built a nice partnership with Dawson throughout the second half of the campaign. | Getty Images
6. LB - Toti Gomes
Scored the only goal in the 1-0 win over Villa and played well defensively, too. One of the most contested positions in the team, Gomes has the left-back spot for now. | Getty Images
7. RM - Adama Traore
Surprising perhaps, but comes in due to his rapid pace. United will probably dominate possession, meaning Wolves need a quick way out on the counter. | Getty Images
8. CM - Ruben Neves
So often one of the best - if not the best - players on the field. Could be his penultimate away day in a Wolves shirt. | Getty Images