Wolverhampton Wanderers extended their impressive streak by securing a 1-0 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup during the midweek fixtures.
This triumph propels the team into the quarter-finals of the competition, marking their first appearance in this stage since 2019. They are now set to face Coventry City in a critical match that could secure them a spot in the semi-finals.
While their FA Cup campaign has been steady, it is their performance in the Premier League over the past few months that positions Gary O’Neil’s team for a comfortable finish in the top half of the table.
Notably, recent wins against Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have demonstrated that Wolves fearlessly take on formidable opponents. As they prepare to face Newcastle United today, the team carries a sense of confidence, believing they can achieve a positive outcome.
Wolverhampton Wanderers’ recent 2-2 draw against Newcastle United earlier this season serves as a benchmark for a potentially favorable outcome in their upcoming match. However, they possess the ability to secure a victory against their opponents.
Following their midweek cup fixture, manager Gary O’Neil may make a few changes to the starting lineup. Let’s take a look at the potential starting XI for Wolverhampton Wanderers against Eddie Howe’s team:
1. Goalkeeper (GK) –
Jose Sa: Sa kept a clean sheet in the recent 1-0 win against Brighton, marking his sixth shutout of the season. Another clean sheet against Newcastle would significantly contribute to the team’s success.
2. Right Center-Back (RCB) –
Max Kilman: Kilman, the team captain, has been a key player for Wolves this season, featuring in all but one game. In the Brighton match, he displayed his defensive prowess with nine clearances, minimal possession losses, and a 50% success rate in aerial duels.
3. Center-Back (CB) –
Craig Dawson: Although Santiago Bueno performed well in the midweek game, experienced defender Craig Dawson will likely be recalled for the crucial league clash. Dawson’s presence in the heart of the defense will provide a significant boost to the team.
4. Left Center-Back (LCB) –
Toti Gomes: Gomes has been enjoying regular game time under O’Neil’s guidance, even earning his first senior cap for Portugal. Despite a slightly underwhelming performance against Brighton, the manager expects Gomes to bounce back in this afternoon’s match.
5. Right Midfielder (RM) –
Nelson Semedo: Semedo has been the preferred option on the right side of the midfield, allowing him to contribute more offensively. However, he needs to improve his goal-scoring and assist-making abilities, as he has only scored once and provided one assist this season.
6. Central Midfielder (CM) –
Mario Lemina: Lemina, having scored the winning goal against Brighton, will retain his place in the starting XI. With five goals this season, he has proven to be a reliable attacking outlet from midfield.
7. Central Midfielder (CM) –
Joao Gomes: Gomes, who was substituted due to injury in the midweek game, is expected to be fit for the clash against Newcastle. Tommy Doyle will make way for him, allowing Gomes to partner Lemina in the center of the pitch.
8. Left Midfielder (LM) –
Rayan Ait-Nouri: Ait-Nouri will maintain his place in the starting lineup, despite a somewhat unproductive performance against Brighton. Manager O’Neil will be looking for an improved attacking display from the young player.
9. Attacking Midfielder (AM) –
Pablo Sarabia: After being dropped to the bench in the previous game, Sarabia will be restored to the starting XI due to his recent performances. With three goals and six assists in the Premier League this season, he will play just behind the striker, aiming to make a difference.
10. Attacking Midfielder (AM) –
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde: Bellegarde, who primarily operates in the center of midfield, started alongside Hwang Hee-Chan in the Brighton match. However, due to a change in formation, he will be moved to an attacking midfield role alongside Sarabia for today’s clash, where he can contribute offensively.
11. Striker (ST) –
Pedro Neto: With Hwang and Cunha sidelined due to injuries, Pedro Neto is likely to start as the main center-forward. Neto has been exceptional this season, having already provided 14 goal contributions (three goals and 11 assists). Although playing in a more advanced position may be unconventional for him, he has previously demonstrated his ability to perform there.
Ultimately, Wolverhampton Wanderers will be hoping for the return of Hwang and Cunha to the starting lineup in the near future. A win against Newcastle would dispel any doubts about their ability to maintain their goal-scoring form.
