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.
9. CM - Mario Lemina
Battles harder than most every week and offers so much energy to break up the play in midfield. | Getty Images
10. LM - Hwang Hee-chan
We reckon Hwang could get a go after a couple of bright moments off the bench recently. Pedro Neto hasn’t done much wrong, but Hwang deserves a chance. | Getty Images
11. ST - Matheus Cunha
Started his Wanderers career slowly but has really ramped up his performances of late. Just needs the goals to start flowing now. | Getty Images
12. ST - Diego Costa
Has put in sensational effort consistently for Wanderers and is always such a nuisance for defenders to deal with. | Getty Images