Can Wolves step up the plate?

The step from Championship to Premiership is probably the biggest step a team have to make in football and Wolverhampton are obviously aware of this. Wolves made it to the Premier League after winning the play-offs in 2003 but were relegated the following season and have been unable to return to the top division until this season. Mick McCarthy’s team were very convincing in the Championship last term and were even crowned champions. However, it is now time to stand up and be counted, although things are looking much more promising than few years back.

The team that were so convincing in the Championship last season stayed together, while several very good players were brought this summer. Mick McCarthy has got a very talented team at his disposal, although I am a bit worried about the lack of experience. The good thing is that the boss has a lot of quality players at his disposal and the team should be able to cope even when first team regulars start to miss the games through injury, which is bound to happen.

McCarthy will be able to choose from experienced Marcus Hahnemann and talented Wayne Hennesey in goal and this position looks well covered. Defence was the weakest part of the team last season but defender Ronald Zubar, who came from Marseille, should add some steel to the back line. Jody Craddock is the only other experienced defender, whereas Stearman, Berra, Elokobi and Foley need to show they are ready for the big stage. Wolves need to sign another experienced defender and we are yet to see if Bobo Balde, who is undergoing a trial at the club, is still capable of playing at the highest level.

Things are looking very promising in midfield, especially with new signings Nenad Milijas and Greg Halford. The Serbian midfielder has had no problems stepping up to the plate when he was called to Serbia national team and I believe he will prove a great buy for Wolves. He is likely to be partnered with Karl Henry in the centre of the park, whereas enthusiastic wingers, Jarvis and Kightly will be starting on the flanks. David Edwards, Andrew Surman, David Jones and Greg Halford will be waiting for their chance and this part of the team should be able to do the job.

Attack will be Wolves’ strongest weapon this season with excellent strikers Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Kevin Doyle, whereas Andy Keogh, Chris Iwelumo and Sam Vokes will be ready to step in if needed.

As I have said before, this is a very talented team and if they survive this season, Wolves should have no problems staying up in the next few years. The only problem is likely to be the lack of experience since not too many players have experienced Premiership football, but with great atmosphere at Moulineux, and a lot of talent throughout the squad, Mick McCarthy’s team should avoid the drop.

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