DAVE SHARES HIS THOUGHTS FOR BBCSPORT ON THE SHAMBOLIC DEFEAT TO CHELSEA
The match against Chelsea starkly highlighted Wolves’ defensive frailties. Chelsea sliced through the Wolves’ back line, exposing huge gaps and leaving Wolves chasing shadows especially second half. Gary’s switch to his preferred back four played a part in the defeat, and he faces a big dilemma: stick or twist?
Despite the glaring defensive issues, it’s not all doom and gloom. The setup allows our attacking players more freedom, with fluid playing styles and dynamic forward movements. Jorgen Strand Larsen and Matheus Cunha seem destined for an exciting partnership up top. It’s great to have this free-flowing attack, but at what cost?
Rayan Ait-Nouri is a conundrum to be solved. He possesses remarkable talent, yet his prowess shines in attack, not defence. Placing him as a left-back misaligns with his abilities, creating defensive gaps that leave Toti vulnerable. Wolves face a challenge, having loaned out Hugo Bueno and lacking alternative left-backs. Gary must address this issue to make a back four effective for Wolves.
Given the defensive lapses is it time to consider a reshuffle? Nelson Semedo serves one more match ban against Burnley in the cup and will surely then return to the starting XI. This would mean that Matt Doherty could potentially fill that left-back role. Alternatively, Toti could move out and cover a left-back/centre-back role, with Dawson filling the centre-back position. We saw a bit of this hybrid system against Chelsea, but it wasn’t an immediate fix.
With the transfer window running down, Wolves must bring in reinforcements that fit this system. Integrating new signings can be a slow process, and with the season underway, O’Neil might find himself racing against time.
Gary O’Neil faces a dilemma and it’s a problem he must solve quickly. Does he keep faith with the back four or switch to Wolves tried and tested back five?
