Wolves Predicted Lineup for West Midlands Derby Against Aston Villa
Wolverhampton Wanderers are set to host local rivals Aston Villa this Friday night in a highly anticipated Premier League clash at Molineux. The stadium is expected to be packed for this West Midlands derby under the lights, with fans hoping for a strong response after a frustrating 1-0 defeat away at Crystal Palace last Sunday.
In that match, Wolves competed well but were reduced to 10 men when Ladislav Krejci received a second yellow card for kicking the ball away. Villa loanee Evann Guessand then scored Palace's winner in the 90th minute, delivering a sucker-punch blow. However, this derby presents a prime opportunity for Wolves to bounce back and secure local bragging rights, offering some joy in what has been a challenging season.
Defensive Adjustments and Key Changes
Manager Rob Edwards must replace the suspended Krejci in the lineup, necessitating at least one change. There could also be rotation in midfield and attack as Wolves aim to counter Villa's threats. Here is the predicted lineup for the match.
Goalkeeper: Jose Sa is likely to retain his place as Wolves' first-choice goalkeeper, with Sam Johnstone providing strong competition from the bench.
Right Wing-Back: Jackson Tchatchoua, known for his rapid pace, is expected to start. Despite inconsistent form since signing, his speed could trouble Villa on the counter-attack and help contain Jadon Sancho.
Centre-Backs: Yerson Mosquera, who has redeemed himself after a poor start to the season, will partner with Santiago Bueno. Bueno has been imperious lately, scoring a recent winner and offering a silver lining in Wolves' campaign. Toti Gomes, returning from a two-month injury layoff, is predicted to start as a risky but natural replacement for Krejci, adding experience to the backline.
Left Wing-Back: Hugo Bueno is favored over David Moller Wolfe and will face the tricky task of marking England international Morgan Rogers.
Midfield and Attack Dynamics
Central Midfield: Andre is set to start ahead of Joao Gomes, with Edwards prioritizing defensive solidity. Angel Gomes, an exciting new signing, is ready to play after an early substitution against Arsenal, bringing much-needed energy to the midfield. Mateus Mane, a promising prospect, deserves his starting spot and is expected to attract interest from bigger clubs soon.
Strikers: Adam Armstrong, a winter signing from Southampton, has started all games since his arrival and is likely to continue as Edwards aims to build his momentum. Tolu Arokodare, standing at 6ft 6in, will serve as an effective outlet up top, determined to improve his goal tally despite only scoring twice in the Premier League so far.
This lineup reflects a blend of experience and youth, with strategic changes aimed at overcoming Villa in a crucial derby match.
