WE BRING YOU ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GARY O'NEIL'S PRESS CONFERENCE
Gary O’NeIl’s Pre-Match press conference
As anticipation builds towards the upcoming match against Manchester City, Wolves’ manager Gary O’Neil shared some updates ahead of the fixture. O’Neil expressed satisfaction over new developments at the club, including player recovery and the impressive signing of Tommy Doyle. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest happenings at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Wolves Welcome Tommy Doyle
Gary O’Neil couldn’t hide his excitement about the addition of Tommy Doyle to the squad. He lavished praise on the young midfielder, emphasising his strong performance at Wolves this season despite needing to remain patient for opportunities. O’Neil highlighted Doyle’s strengths with the ball and articulated a clear vision for his development, aiming to enhance his impact during games. Describing him as low-maintenance and a valuable asset, O’Neil appears confident that Doyle will prove to be a bargain signing who will greatly contribute to the team.
Positive News from the Injury Front
Injury updates often bring a mixed bag of emotions, but this time it’s all smiles at the Wolves camp. O’Neil confirmed the return of key players, including Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, Santiago Bueno, and Pedro Neto, all of whom are back in full training. Their availability for the upcoming weekend game is a significant boost for the team. Speculations are rife about whether Bueno will start, particularly if Wolves opt for a back-three formation, but their return in any capacity increases the team’s strategic options.
The Upcoming Challenge Against Manchester City
Looking ahead to the clash with Manchester City, O’Neil set a realistic tone about the challenges that lie ahead. Acknowledging City’s position as one of the top teams, he emphasised the need for a near-perfect performance from his team to clinch a win. Despite the high stakes, Gary conveyed a sense of optimism and readiness to face what he described as the “ultimate test” for Wolves.
Managing from the Sidelines
O’Neil also touched upon the impact of not being on the touchline for the next game, a change due to a touchline ban. He assured fans that his interaction and strategy deployment won’t be hindered as he plans to remain in constant communication with his team from the dressing room.
Ensuring Player Fitness
With the return of the players from injuries, Gary was cautious yet hopeful. He stressed that he wouldn’t risk playing anyone who isn’t fully fit. Yet, he also conveyed a sense of urgency and eagerness from the players to get back on the field, underlining their importance to the squad’s dynamics and overall morale.
KEY POINTS
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, Pedro Neto and Santiago Bueno have all returned to full training and are available for Saturday’s match. Noha Lemina is back in training but has a “little bit more to do”, while Craig Dawson remains out.
Reflecting on September’s 2-1 win over City, O’Neil said: “In the first game we were at home, which makes it easier. They were missing a couple of players. I think everybody is pretty aware of how good they are in the run-in as well, so I would expect it to be a much more difficult test than the one we faced back in the early part of the season.”
On facing a side fighting for the Premier League title: “They probably don’t feel like they can make a slip. I would have thought with Arsenal breathing down their necks they will expect to need maximum points from the games they have got left to get it done.”
More on the challenge facing Wolves at Etihad Stadium: “We go there trying to give everything we can, try to be as close to perfect as we can and see if we can cause an upset. Three points would be massive to us.”
On serving a one-match touchline ban on Saturday: “It will have an impact, of course, but there are things in place. I am in the changing room with the players doing all of the pre-match prep, and at half-time and at full-time. I will be in communication with the bench and have a decent view tactically of the game from where I am sat.”
He added: “It is not ideal – if it was ideal we would do it every week. But no problem. The coaching staff are equally aware of what we are trying to do tomorrow and me being higher up will allow me to get a different view on things and I can get some messages down.”
