'Brave' Mario Lemina decision made as Gary O’Neil changes formation - Wolves predicted XI vs Man City

Wolves are thrown in at the deep end upon their return from the international break as they play host to Man City at Molineux on Sunday afternoon.

The Old Gold are rock bottom of the Premier League following six defeats and one draw in their opening seven fixtures. Last time out’s 5-3 loss away at Brentford piled on the misery as O’Neil’s men suffered yet another defensive capitulation.

Results must improve soon or Wolves will become heavy favourites for relegation to the Championship. The fixture list certainly improves soon but first there’s one of the hardest possible tests as Pep Guardiola’s City will be determined to close the gap to Liverpool at the top of the table.

Champions in each of the past four seasons, City are unbeaten so far this season but are below Liverpool due to two draws. Their trip to Molineux will be seen as a must-win by all in sky blue, so Wolves are likely in for a difficult afternoon.

O’Neil admitted after the Brentford defeat that he may have to ditch elements of his tactical approach. As pessimistic as it is, switching to a back five could be one way to try and limit City’s threat. Counter-attacks and set-pieces would be the only likely routes to goal in that case, but a better defensive performance is the priority.

Wolves predicted XI vs Man City

With all of that in mind, here are the 11 Wolves players we predict O’Neil will start against City, in a 5-4-1 formation.

GK - Sam Johnstone

Johnstone, signed from Crystal Palace on deadline day, has become the new first choice goalkeeper. He’s yet to show his best, but he’s got the capability.

RB - Nelson Semedo

Semedo is without doubt the best right-back at the club, though Pedro Lima will eventually be keen to take the baton.

CB - Santiago Bueno

Bueno has returned from his glute issue and could come in for a start if O’Neil decides to go with a back three.

CB - Craig Dawson

Dawson had a poor game at Brentford but he’s so often been the man to get Wolves out of trouble. His experience is important.

CB - Toti Gomes

Toti has been useful for Wolves as a left-sided centre half. He’s struggled for consistency at times but is the best option in the position.

LB - Rayan Ait-Nouri

Ait-Nouri leaves lots to be desired defensively at times but he remains the best left-back at the club. His directness on the counter-attack could be useful.

RM - Carlos Forbs

Forbs’ pace could be a good outlet for Wolves on the transition, otherwise the game could get very one-dimensional.

CM - Andre

Andre has impressed as the deepest-lying midfielder. The £21 million summer signing has settled in very quickly.

CM - Joao Gomes

Gomes, effective with his break-up play, lives for big matches. There aren’t many Wanderers players who can match his competitiveness. It’s brave to leave out Mario Lemina, but he’s not been performing.

LM - Matheus Cunha

Cunha, who scored a great goal at Villa Park a month ago, continues to be one of the Old Gold’s biggest threats week in, week out. He simply has to start.

ST - Jorgen Strand Larsen

Strand Larsen has struggled to get in the goals so far - with just two to his name in eight games - but his attacking movement and hold-up play have been promising.