Opposition view
Liam Keen, Wolves correspondent at the Express & Star
On Wolves’ start to the season…
Wolves’ summer business started superbly with three signings by July 1, including the much-needed No.9 signing of Jorgen Strand Larsen.
However, they then struggled to get other key positions over the line, while losing Max Kilman and Pedro Neto. Not signing a centre-back, and now losing Yerson Mosquera to a serious knee injury, has left Wolves short.
The late signing of midfielder Andre has eased some concerns, however, as he has started life at Wolves in fine form.
A run of tough fixtures leaves Wolves bottom of the table after five games, but some of their performances have warranted more, if not for some basic errors. This should be a team that improves on their current position.
On Wolves’ key players…
Andre has been a good buffer in front of the back four as a tough-tackling midfielder with an eye for a pass.
But Wolves’ biggest attacking threat, by some distance, has been Matheus Cunha. He carries the ball superbly, pops up in dangerous positions in between the lines and has an eye for goal.
His link-up with Larsen has been dangerous at times and shows promise.
On Gary O’Neil’s preferred style of play…
Wolves started pre-season and the full season in an aggressive and high-pressing back four, often a 4-2-3-1, but changed that slightly when Craig Dawson was recalled to the team and the experienced defender has been incredibly important.
The injury to Mosquera means Wolves could switch to a back five this weekend to shore up a leaky defence, particularly with Wolves desperate for a result. But O’Neil will also want to find the balance between keeping Liverpool quiet and giving the home support something to cheer about at the other end.