EVERTON V WOLVES: ROB EDWARDS PRESS CONFERENCE

A lift in mood, but not a change in the work

Edwards agreed there has been a bounce since the win, but he also pushed back on the idea that everything has suddenly transformed inside the training ground.

He said the outside world only cares about results, and he understands why. But internally, the focus has stayed on improvement. He feels that has been happening for a while, even before the wins arrived.

The key shift he has noticed lately is belief.

He said the last couple of weeks have brought better quality in training, more energy, and a sense that the group can feel the progress. That matters because confidence in football is contagious. When players believe the plan is working, they run more, take braver touches, and make better decisions.

Edwards also made a point of what the win meant for supporters. He said the club needed it, but the fans needed it most. Then it was straight back to business.

Mané’s impact keeps growing

Asked about the standout display from Mateus Mané, Edwards sounded both pleased and protective.

He joked that Mané is probably still too wary to ask him questions. But he did not downplay what the youngster is doing.

Edwards praised:

• Intensity and selfless work
• Bravery
• Real moments of quality
• A strong attitude, whether starting or coming off the bench

The most interesting line was that Mané’s approach has “rubbed off” on the group. That is what Wolves have missed at times this season. Not just talent, but a player who raises the tempo and makes others follow.

Everton next, and Edwards is not buying the hype

Edwards did not let the recent results soften his view of the challenge.

He called every Premier League game difficult, and he expects Everton to be especially awkward. He mentioned they are coming off a frustrating home result, which usually means a reaction is coming.

He said Wolves are “under no illusions” and that they are “far from” having cracked it. The phrase he came back to was keeping feet on the ground and working very hard.

In other words, two wins do not mean Wolves are fixed. They just mean Wolves have something to build on.

Respect for Moyes, and a reminder of the job’s stress

There was a lighter moment when Edwards was asked about David Moyes and his huge number of Premier League matches.

Edwards laughed that he is not sure he could cope with that kind of stress. But he also spoke with real respect for Moyes’ longevity and achievements, including winning a trophy recently.

He called it unique, and suggested it may become rarer for British managers to reach those numbers. It was a small segment, but it showed Edwards’ mindset. He respects experience, but he is not distracted by reputations.

Injury update: Hwang and João Gomes train

The main team news was positive.

Edwards said Hwang and João Gomes trained today, and the hope is they will be fine.

Beyond that, he does not expect anyone else back who has been missing. He added that players like Bellegarde and Munetsi are progressing on time, but not ready for this midweek game.

For Wolves, that likely means late calls again and a need for the squad to stay flexible.

Midfield tweaks are now real options

One of the most useful parts of the press conference came when Edwards was asked about the new look midfield.

He said the last couple of games have not only brought results, but strong performances across different parts of the game:

• Running and work rate
• In-possession play
• A more solid feel

His line was that it has given Wolves “a few more strings to our bow”. That matters ahead of Everton away, where you often need more than one way to win.

JHOn Arias: deeper role, more involvement

Edwards was also asked about Jhon Arias and whether a change of role can help a player find form.

He did not overcomplicate it.

He said Arias wants to feel involved. When he is involved, Wolves see more of him, and more of his best. Edwards suggested the deeper role helps him stay in the game.

He also pointed back to a previous example, saying Arias looked excellent in a different position at Aston Villa.

The message was simple: if Arias is selected, Wolves need consistent performances, and this role may be the best route to that.

Tolu: “more to come” and signs of progress

Edwards sounded encouraged about Tolu’s recent run.

He said Tolu has improved, is getting fitter, and is adapting to the league. He is seeing “shoots of improvement”, plus more confidence and belief.

He also pushed back against the idea that Tolu is just a physical presence. Edwards said he is comfortable with the ball at his feet, has been a threat, and has worked hard.

That combination is important against Everton. You need a forward who can compete, hold it up, and still make good decisions when the ball drops under pressure.

January transfers: Wolves want to make an impact

Edwards did not give specifics on targets, but he did confirm the key point.

Conversations are ongoing. They want to “make an impact” this month. He admitted he does not enjoy the January window, especially the awkward early period, but the intent is there.

That suggests Wolves are still looking to strengthen, even after the recent upturn.

What it all means for Everton v Wolves

Edwards’ tone today was what you want from a manager in this spot.

He welcomed the lift, but did not lean on it. He praised individuals, but kept it about the group. He respected Everton and Moyes, but did not sound intimidated.

Most of all, he kept repeating the idea that Wolves are improving and must keep working.

Everton away will test that belief quickly. If Wolves match the intensity, stay brave in possession, and keep the midfield balance that has helped them lately, they give themselves a real chance to back up the recent wins.