Wolves host Brentford at Molineux after an encouraging display at Arsenal. We bring you all the news from Rob Edwards Press Conference
Wolves head coach Rob Edwards spoke to the media ahead of Brentford’s visit to Molineux. He covered a heartbreaking week off the pitch, signs of progress after Arsenal, and what he wants to see at home.
Here are the main takeaways.
Tribute after devastating news
Edwards opened by addressing the death of Ethan McLeod, a young player who spent years at Wolves. He said the club is “desperately sad” and that “words fail” in moments like this.
He stressed the support around Ethan’s family, friends, and especially his brother Connor, who is still in the Wolves academy. Edwards said everyone at the club is thinking of them and will help in any way they can.
A positive training week after Arsenal
On the pitch, Edwards said the squad responded well to the defeat at Arsenal.
- Training intensity has been good.
- The focus has been strong.
- The group wants that work to show in the form of points.
He was clear about the goal: take the week’s work into the match and turn it into a result.
Squad update: AFCON absences, a suspension, and youth involvement
Edwards confirmed Agbadou and Chirewa have gone to AFCON duty, and he wished them well.
He also noted:
- Yerson Mosquera is suspended.
- Hugo Bueno will not be ready this weekend, but could return next week.
- As a result, a few younger players will likely be involved, which he sees as a good learning chance.
He added that Wolves still have enough bodies to keep their structure, even if the bench is lighter.
Young talent: praise for Mateus Mane’s impact at Arsenal
Edwards highlighted 18-year-old Mateus Mane, who impressed at the Emirates with his direct running and bravery, and produced a key moment for the goal.
He liked that Mane:
- takes risks,
- plays direct,
- shows personality in forward areas.
But he also said the feeling after the match was still frustration, because Wolves did not get what they wanted from the result.
“If you’re going to lose, there are ways to lose”
Edwards did not describe the Arsenal defeat as harder to take because of the performance. He actually preferred that type of loss compared to games where Wolves fall short in areas they can control.
His view was simple:
- The players followed the plan.
- They worked hard.
- Against top teams, fine margins can decide it.
He said it is harder to accept defeats when the performance level drops or basics are missing.
Brentford preview: focus on Wolves, make Arsenal standards “non-negotiable”
On Brentford, Edwards said their mixed run makes sense because they have had change. He also credited them for doing a good job.
But his main focus was Wolves:
- The best parts of the Arsenal performance must become “non-negotiables.”
- This game should be different, with Wolves likely to have more of the ball.
- Wolves must control key moments and create more.
He also admitted he has said similar things after other games, and now he wants to see it consistently.
Message to the fans: the team has to earn the support
Edwards acknowledged fan frustration. He did not ask for patience or demand backing first. He said it is on the team to give supporters a reason to lift the atmosphere.
He pointed to how the crowd reacted to recent big moments and goals. His stance was that a strong performance will bring the fans with them.
Substitutes and squad impact matters
Edwards stressed it is “a squad game.” With Wolves often level at half-time in recent matches, he wants substitutes to change games with goals, assists, and energy.
He said the group will keep hearing that message, because Wolves will need more impact from the bench.
Big praise for Hwang Hee-chan
Edwards singled out Hwang Hee-chan for his recent performance and attitude.
He said:
- Hwang has trained well.
- His tactical understanding is strong.
- He helped the team in key defensive spaces.
- He also looked like a threat going forward.
Edwards wants consistency now, because he believes Hwang’s best level is high.
Home form: “It’s on us now to show it at Molineux”
Edwards was asked if it is easier to play away from home, given recent performances. He pointed out Wolves’ two best displays have come away, but now they must bring those levels to Molineux.
He said the home performance does not need to be perfect, but it must include:
- character,
- resilience,
- intensity,
- doing the basics well.
And for younger players, his message was clear: age does not matter once you step on the pitch. Believe in yourself and perform.