Wolverhampton Wanderers begin a new chapter this weekend as Rob Edwards takes charge of his first game at home to Crystal Palace. The Midlands club, rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table after 11 fixtures, are desperate for a turnaround.
A Club in Crisis
The situation at Molineux is stark. Wolves are currently winless and eight points from safety, sitting inside the relegation zone alongside West Ham United and Nottingham Forest. The appointment of Edwards, who left his role at Middlesbrough to replace Vitor Pereira, is a clear attempt to reverse the club's fortunes. All eyes will be on his team selection for this crucial home fixture.
Edwards' Expected Starting Eleven
Edwards is expected to make two key changes to the side that was beaten 3-0 by Chelsea in their last outing. The predicted line-up is as follows.
In goal, Sam Johnstone is set to continue as the number one. The 32-year-old, who joined the club in 2024, will be protected by a back five.
The defence is likely to feature Jackson Tchatchoua at right wing-back, with the summer signing from Hellas Verona known for his attacking bursts. The three central defenders are predicted to be Santiago Bueno, the Uruguayan international, Ladislav Krejci, whose left foot offers balance, and Toti Gomes, who started at Stamford Bridge. Hugo Bueno is expected to complete the defensive line at left wing-back after enjoying a resurgence this campaign.
Midfield Shake-Up and Attack
The engine room could see a significant change, with Marshall Munetsi potentially being recalled to the starting line-up. The Zimbabwe international may come in for Andre, freshening up the midfield alongside Joao Gomes and Jean-Ricner Bellegarde.
Up front, another alteration is anticipated. Jhon Arias, the attacker signed in July, could step in for Hwang Hee-Chan. He is likely to partner Jorgen Strand Larsen, the striker who is yet to find his scoring form this season.
The full predicted Wolves XI is: Johnstone; Tchatchoua, S. Bueno, Krejci, Toti, H. Bueno; J. Gomes, Munetsi, Bellegarde; Arias, Strand Larsen.
