2019-20 Season - December 2019- February 2020

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London Wolves “Home matches”

 AFC Bournemouth Sat 23 Nov  Arsenal Sat 2 Nov Brighton Sat 7 Dec Chelski Sun 17 May

Crystal Palace Sat 21 Sep Norwich (for Abbswolf) Sat 21 Dec Southampton Sat 18 January

Tottenham Hotspur  Sat 29 Feb Watford Sat 27 April West Ham United  Sat 14 March Watford Sat 1 Jan

 London Wolves on Europa tour to Barcelona for Espanyol

Pix Mark Feeham Peter Abbott and John Golding

28 Sunday 1 March was 29 February 2020 A Spurs 14:00 Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

29 Spurs 2 Bergwijn (13'), Aurier (45') Wolves 3 Doherty (27'), Jota (57'), Jiménez (73')

HT 2-1

Wolves trailed twice before Raul Jimenez scored the winner

Raul Jimenez scored a smart winner as Wolves recovered to move above Tottenham in the Premier League and boost their hopes of earning a Champions League spot. Nuno Espirito Santo's side trailed twice in north London before Jimenez latched on to Diogo Jota's pass to finish with his left foot. Spurs first led when Steven Bergwijn poked in and then from Serge Aurier's curling effort before the break. But Matt Doherty and Jota combined to bring Wolves level on both occasions.  Jota's ball was fired home by Doherty after Spurs defender Japhet Tanganga failed to clear and then Jota tapped in from close range following Doherty's low cross. Dele Alli had missed the chance to send Tottenham into a 3-1 lead moments earlier when he headed wide while unmarked inside the box.

The win sends Wolves sixth in the table and three points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.Can Wolves mount Champions League chase? Both of these sides harbour hopes of reaching the Champions League next season but it is Wolves who boast the better form and now also the better platform to do so.  The task of qualifying for Europe's premier competition could be made easier if Manchester City's continental ban is upheld and fifth place comes into play.  Wolves, who could also book a place through the Europa League, showed resilience to twice come from behind and were largely inspired by their two wide forwards - Jota and Adama Traore. Jota is in superb form and had a hand in all three of Wolves' goals, with his pass sending Jimenez away to slot the winner beyond Paulo Gazzaniga 17 minutes from time. The visitors, who are now level on points with Manchester United in fifth, had the phenomenal Traore to thank for bringing them level as he rode a heavy tackle by Tanganga to keep alive a move that ended with Doherty crossing for Jota to score from close range. That was the Portugal international's sixth goal in his past three games in all competitions, all coming in the last 10 days.

Spurs find goals, but struggle at the back Serge Aurier scored his first Premier League goal of the season Tottenham's striker crisis is well documented and home fans will have welcomed the news England captain Harry Kane's return from a hamstring injury appears ahead of schedule, but Jose Mourinho's side need a short-term solution if they are to keep their European hopes on track. Spurs, with Son Heung-min also absent after surgery on a fractured arm, have struggled to find a focal point in attack recently and opted for a fluid front three of Bergwijn, Alli and Lucas Moura, though it was Aurier who proved their most penetrative threat. It was from the Ivory Coast international's driven cross that Spurs took the lead, as Bergwijn pounced after Alli's initial effort was saved to score his second Tottenham goal since a January move from PSV. Alli then found Aurier in space on the edge of the Wolves penalty area and the 27-year-old cut inside before curling left-footed effort into the far corner. But it was at the other end Tottenham struggled, looking indecisive on occasions with both Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen on the bench, as they failed to stop Wolves' quick, attacking breaks. Despite enjoying large spells of possession, Spurs failed to register a shot on target in the second half and Mourinho brought 18-year-old Republic of Ireland striker Troy Parrott on in added time. His arrival earned a cheer from the home fans, but was too late to make a difference to the scoreline. Mourinho has previously said Parrott, who had played five Premier League minutes before today, was "not ready" but the Portuguese must be hoping his young striker can prove him wrong in the coming weeks.

Man of the match - Diogo Jota (Wolves)

Diogo Jota is Wolves' in-form man, scoring six goals in the past 10 days

'The players didn't deserve the defeat' - Mourinho

Spurs manager Jose Mourinho speaking to Match of the Day: "I think unfair. The players didn't deserve the defeat. We were punished by, I would say, mentality mistakes. You have to be ruthless against teams like Wolves that plays fantastically well on the counter-attack. We deserve much more than these results but this is what it is. [The front three] combined well, they did what they can. They did the plan that we worked on in the week. We had lots of arrivals in dangerous positions, but it is quite frustrating to see they don't have that feeling." On leaving out Alderweireld and Vertonghen: "I think Eric Dier played very, very well, so when the player you bring in as a replacement plays very, very well the question could be why did you play Dier and not why did you leave out Toby and Jan.  I tried to play with Davinson [Sanchez] and Tanganga, which are the two fastest players. Dier is because he is a midfield player, he has the possibility to come out with the ball and play as an extra midfield player. I thought they did very well apart from the goals, which are collective responsibility, not individual responsibility." Tottenham punished for 'mentality mistakes' - Mourinho

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo, also to Match of the Day: "It's amazing the energy levels that we put into the game. They recover very well. It's a challenge, and when you really embrace the challenge you give everything you have, and this is what we are doing. We should start the game better. Tottenham is such an amazing team and can create so many problems. The second half was much, much better, more organised, better pressing and the movements for the goal was good." On beating his former manager: "It's nothing special, was a very, very tough game. I have huge admiration for Jose Mourinho, for me he is a reference."

Wolves 'energy' the key to beating Spurs - Nuno Wolves prove the comeback kings - the stats Spurs have lost three consecutive matches in all competitions for the first time since May last year. Jose Mourinho has lost three games in a row for only the fourth time during his managerial career, doing so once with Porto, Chelsea and Manchester United. Wolves have won 35 points from losing positions in the Premier League since the start of last season, at least six more than any other side during this period. Wolves have both scored and conceded in 20 different Premier League games this season (W6 D9 L5), a competition high. Since the start of last season, Matt Doherty has netted eight Premier League goals for Wolves, the joint most of all defenders in the competition alongside Liverpool skipper Virgil Van Dijk.

Steven Bergwijn is the first Tottenham player to score in his first two home Premier League appearances since Rafael van der Vaart in October 2010 and the third overall, after his fellow Dutchman and Jermain Defoe (February 2004). Raul Jimenez's 13 Premier League goals this season have been worth 16 points to Wolves, the joint most alongside Sadio Mane and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

What's next? Tottenham host Norwich in the FA Cup fifth round on Wednesday (19:45 GMT) before visiting Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday (17:30), while Wolves are home to Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday (15:00).

Line-ups

Tottenham

22Gazzaniga 6D Sánchez 15Dier 39Tanganga sub Ndombeleat 76'24Aurier sub Carvalho Fernandesat 82' 18Lo CelsoBooked at 59' 8WinksBooked at 84' 33DaviesBooked at 84' sub Parrottat 90+1' 27Lucas Moura 20Alli 23Bergwijn Substitutes 4Alderweireld 5Vertonghen 13Vorm 28Ndombele 29Skipp 30Carvalho Fernandes 52Parrott

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 15BolyBooked at 71' 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho 29Vinagre 37Traoré sub Netoat 74' 9Jiménez sub Castelo  Podenceat 90+2' 18Jota sub Dendonckerat 79'Booked at 90' Substitutes 7Neto 10Castelo Podence 17Gibbs-White 21Ruddy 32Dendoncker 49Kilman 59Buur

Referee: Stuart Attwell Attendance: 58,064

Match Stats

     Tottenham Wolves

Possession 65% 35%

Shots      13  14

Shots on Tgt 5  4

Corners     4   5

Fouls      12  14

Match ends, Tottenham Hotspur 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3.

Full Time 90'+6' Second Half ends, Tottenham Hotspur 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3.

Booking 90'+5' Leander Dendoncker (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 90'+5' Giovani Lo Celso (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive  half. 90'+5' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 90'+5' Attempt blocked. Harry Winks (TH) right footed shot from the left side of the box is  blocked. Assisted by Giovani Lo Celso. 90'+3' Attempt blocked. Lucas Moura (TH) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Gedson Fernandes with a cross.  90'+2'  sub,  Wolverhampton Wanderers. Daniel Podence replaces Raúl Jiménez.  90'+1'  sub,  (TH) Troy Parrott replaces Ben Davies. 89' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Pedro Neto. Booking 84' Ben Davies (TH) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Booking 84' Harry Winks (TH) is shown the yellow card. 84' Foul by Ben Davies (TH). 84' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 82'  sub,  (TH) Gedson Fernandes replaces Serge Aurier. 81' Serge Aurier (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 81' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 81' Foul by Ben Davies (TH). 81' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 79'  sub,  Wolverhampton Wanderers. Leander Dendoncker replaces Diogo Jota. 78' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick on the right wing. 78' Foul by Rúben Vinagre (WW). 76'  sub,  (TH) Tanguy Ndombele replaces Japhet Tanganga. 76' Ben Davies (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 76' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 74'  sub,  Wolverhampton Wanderers. Pedro Neto replaces Adama Traoré because of an injury. Goal!

73' Goal! Tottenham Hotspur 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Diogo Jota.

Booking 71' Willy Boly (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 71' Dele Alli (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 71' Foul by Willy Boly (WW). 68' Hand ball by Serge Aurier (TH). 66' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 66' Foul by Serge Aurier (TH). 66' Rúben Vinagre (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half.  65' Corner, (TH) Conceded by Matt Doherty. 62' Giovani Lo Celso (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 62' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 61' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Dele Alli. 60' Foul by Japhet Tanganga (TH). 60' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. Booking 59' Giovani Lo Celso (TH) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 58' Foul by Giovani Lo Celso (TH). 58' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Goal!

57' Goal! Tottenham Hotspur 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from very close range to the bottom left corner.

57' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 57' Foul by Lucas Moura (TH).  57' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 55' Attempt missed. Dele Alli (TH) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Ben Davies with a cross. 55' Attempt blocked. Giovani Lo Celso (TH) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Ben Davies with a cross. 54' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 54' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 53' Foul by Serge Aurier (TH). 53' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 52' Dele Alli (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 52' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 49' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) header from the centre of the box is just a bit too high. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. 49' Foul by Ben Davies (TH). 49' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 46' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 46' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW).

Second Half

Second Half begins Tottenham Hotspur 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1.

Half Time 45'+3' First Half ends, Tottenham Hotspur 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1.

45'+2' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) with an attempt from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 45'+2' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Serge Aurier. Goal! 45' Goal! Tottenham Hotspur 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Serge Aurier (TH) left footed shot from the right side of the box to the top left corner. Assisted by Dele Alli. 45' Attempt saved. Dele Alli (TH) right footed shot from very close range is saved in the top centre of the goal. 44' Attempt blocked. Harry Winks (TH) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Steven Bergwijn. 44' Attempt blocked. Ben Davies (TH) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. 43' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 42' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Eric Dier. 39' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Eric Dier. 38' Dele Alli (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 38' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 36' Foul by Japhet Tanganga (TH). 36' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 32' Davinson Sánchez (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 32' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 30' Attempt saved. Lucas Moura (TH) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Giovani Lo Celso with a cross.   30' Corner, (TH) Conceded by Willy Boly.

Goal!

27' Goal! Tottenham Hotspur 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Matt Doherty (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal.

26' Steven Bergwijn (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 26' Foul by Willy Boly (WW). 23' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box is too high. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. 19' Attempt missed. Davinson Sánchez (TH) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses the top right corner. Assisted by Serge Aurier following a corner. 19' Corner, (TH) Conceded by Romain Saïss. 18' Giovani Lo Celso (TH) wins a free kick on the right wing. 18' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). Goal! 13' Goal! Tottenham Hotspur 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0. Steven Bergwijn (TH) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. 13' Attempt saved. Dele Alli (TH) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 12' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 12' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Davinson Sánchez. 12' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. 12' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 10' Attempt blocked. Lucas Moura (TH) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Serge Aurier. 8' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. 7' Foul by Dele Alli (TH). 7' Conor Coady (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 4' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 4' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 3' Foul by Dele Alli (TH). 3' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 2' Corner, (TH) Conceded by Romain Saïss. Kick Off First Half begins.

TEAM NEWS

Tottenham striker Harry Kane is making good progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury but he remains out, along with Son Heung-min, Juan Foyth, Ryan Sessegnon and Moussa Sissoko.  An injury continues to hamper Erik Lamela, though he should be fit enough to again feature as a substitute.  Wolves are without wing-back Jonny, who was forced off against Norwich last weekend.  Top scorer Raul Jimenez will return after being rested against Espanyol.

Wolves to face Olympiakos in Europa League

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

Martin Fisher: It's the third meeting between master and pupil with Nuno Espirito Santo hoping to record his first victory over the man who had him on the bench as reserve goalkeeper for both of his European triumphs with Porto. The respect he has for Jose Mourinho is enormous but as Frank Lampard demonstrated last week that will only fuel the desire to beat him. Despite winning three of their last four in the league, Spurs' striker crisis leaves them vulnerable. Wolves' defence has been impenetrable recently anyway while up front the goals have been flowing again. The day starts with Tottenham higher in the table but it might not end that way.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Tottenham head coach Jose Mourinho on Harry Kane's recovery from injury: "I would say he is a little bit ahead... Just speculating a bit, the feelings are good... Everything is going well. When he was injured I said 'forget him', then I said 'one or two games'. At this moment I have better hopes than that, hopefully that feeling is right and he can help us in the last few games of the season."

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, speaking after Thursday's Europa League game with Espanyol: "We are proud of what we have been doing. We want to keep going. This gel between [the] players is amazing."

Spurs have kept three clean sheets in 22 league and cup games under Jose Mourinho

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head - Wolves beat Tottenham 3-1 at Wembley in December 2018 and can win back-to-back away league games against them for the first time.  Last season's victory is Wolves' only triumph in seven league games against Spurs (D2, L4).

Tottenham Hotspur can claim three consecutive home league victories for the first time since winning their first three top-flight games at their new stadium in April 2019. Spurs have kept only three clean sheets in 22 matches in all competitions under Jose Mourinho.

They could suffer three consecutive league and cup defeats for the first time this season. It would also be their 400th home loss in the top flight. Lucas Moura has gone 10 Premier League appearances without a goal since scoring in December's 2-1 win at Wolves. Dele Alli is one short of becoming the seventh player to score 50 Premier League goals for Spurs.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are unbeaten in their eight Premier League games in London (W3, D5) since promotion in 2018 - their longest undefeated top-flight run in the capital since an 11-match sequence between 1972 and 1974. Nuno Espirito Santo's side have kept three consecutive clean sheets in the Premier League, as many as they had in their previous 23 games in the competition. They have conceded just one goal in the last six league games Willy Boly has played in (scored by Southampton's Danny Ings on 3 October). Defeat would be Wolves' 100th in the Premier League. Raul Jimenez has scored 12 goals in 27 Premier League games this season, just one fewer than he managed in 38 matches last term. Matt Doherty could make his 250th league appearance for Wolves.

EU 32 Espanyol v Wolves 5:55pm ko   (Dec 16 draw)    

EU32 Espanyol 3 Calleri (16', 57' pen, 90'+1') Wolves 2 Traoré (22'), Doherty (79')

HT 1-1 (Agg 3-6)

Wolves go through to the last 16 of the competition for the first time since 1971-72 - drawn against Olympiacos

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo said his side's qualification for the Europa League last 16 is a "massive achievement", despite Jonathan Calleri's hat-trick condemning them to a narrow defeat at Espanyol. The Premier League side travelled to Barcelona in full control of the tie after their emphatic 4-0 win at Molineux in the first leg, and although they were beaten in Spain, Nuno insisted he was "proud" of his players.  "I'm very proud with the way the players have been working and dedicating themselves, and I think it has been massive," he said. "It's massive for the club, massive for the city and we are happy, but we want to keep going. Keep going with the hard work, and this gel between players is amazing, but we need to keep on going."

The hosts took the lead through Argentine forward Calleri, who tapped in David Lopez's cross for his first European goal, before Barcelona-born Adama Traore's away goal effectively killed the tie. Espanyol began the second half requiring another five goals to advance but they continued to press and were rewarded when Calleri hit his second from the spot after Max Kilman was penalised for a high boot on David Lopez. Wolves equalised for a second time when Matt Doherty side-footed Daniel Podence's neat cross into an empty net, but the La Liga side had the final say on the night when Calleri headed in his third in injury time. The visitors could have taken the lead moments earlier but substitute Pedro Neto failed to hit an open goal after latching on to a misplaced backpass and rounding the goalkeeper.

The draw for the last 16 takes place on Friday at 12:00 GMT.

Below-par Wolves get the job done - Nuno said he was "worried" before kick-off, even with his side's healthy advantage after the first leg. And although qualification was never really in doubt, the performance by some of Nuno's fringe players will have been a concern with the club still competing in two competitions. Espanyol are the second lowest scorers in La Liga and are rooted to the bottom of the Spanish top flight, but they dominated possession (63%) and produced double as many shots on target (six) as their visitors (three). The Portuguese boss made five changes, with youngsters Kilman, Morgan Gibbs-White and full debutant Podence among those given the chance to impress, but the visitors started poorly as Calleri opened the scoring. Traore equalised with a huge slice of fortune as his first shot came back to him off the heels of the defender before his second attempt was parried into the corner by goalkeeper Andres Prieto. There was a lack of attacking quality at either end but Espanyol went back in front when Wolves failed to clear their lines as Kilman conceded the spot-kick for Calleri's second. Wolves hit back with a rare attack of their own but Calleri completed his hat-trick as he rose highest to meet Pipa's cross with a guided header into the corner. Nuno's side go through, and more experienced players will return, but Espanyol exposed frailties that will need resolving if Wolves are to go deeper into a competition that they began the day as fifth favourites to win.

Who is left in the Europa League?

Rangers Shakhtar Donetsk Roma Inter Milan Wolfsburg Manchester United LASK Olympiakos Basel Sevilla Bayer Leverkusen FC Copenhagen Istanbul Basaksehir Getafe Wolves RB Salzburg or Eintracht Frankfurt

Man of the match - Jonathan Calleri (Es)

Jonathan Calleri

Calleri scored an impressive hat-trick in Barcelona, including the last-gasp winner

'We are proud of what we've been doing' - what they said

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo: "It was a tough game. Espanyol pressed very high and controlled many areas, we were organised, but we should have done better with the ball.

"When we analyse the game, we have to realise the players and we have to be cautious and prudent about it.

"I think we should have done better, but the hard work was there, the organisation was there, the fans are happy because we made something that is massive for us. It's a lot of hard work; last season, qualifiers, play-offs, group stages - all these things, so we are proud of what we've been doing."

Wolves end 48-year wait - the stats

Wolves have progressed to the last 16 of a major European competition for the first time since the 1971-72 Uefa Cup, where they were losing finalists that season.  Wolves have lost each of their two away games against Spanish opposition in Europe, losing 4-0 against Barcelona in February 1960 and now against Espanyol. Espanyol's Jonathan Calleri became the first player to score against Wolves in any competition since Roberto Firmino did so for Liverpool back in January, ending their run of 381 minutes without conceding. There were just 363 seconds between Espanyol's opener and Wolves' equaliser netted by Adama Traore. Traore has bagged six goals in all competitions this season for Wolves, his best ever haul in a single campaign in his career. Calleri is the second player to net three or more goals against an English side in European competition this season (excluding qualifiers) after Serge Gnabry against Tottenham in the Champions League in October. Wolves' Matt Doherty has scored 14 goals in all competitions since the start of last season, more than any other defender for a Premier League side.

Espanyol

1Prieto 34Gómez 5Gomes Pereira 24Calero 3Pedrosa 4Sánchez booked 40' sub Lozanoat 61' 15López 22Vargas booked 66' 10Darder sub Wuat 67' 14Melendo sub Ávilaat 75' 12Calleri booked 66' Substitutes 2Ávila 7Wu 9Ferreyra 13López 18Cabrera 23Embarba 26Lozano

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 15Boly 16Coady 49Kilman booked 56' 2Doherty 17Gibbs-White booked 63' sub Netoat 64' 32Dendoncker 28João Moutinho 29Vinagre sub Saïssat 58' 37Traoré booked 6' sub Cavaco Jordãoat 78' 10Castelo Podence Substitutes 6Cavaco Jordão 7Neto 9Jiménez 21Ruddy 27Saïss 30Campana 59Buur

Referee: Marco Guida

      Espanyol  Wolves

Possession 63%  37%

Shots      12   10

Shots on Tgt 6   3

Corners     8    2

Fouls       7   12

Match ends, Espanyol 3, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

Full Time 90'+4'

Second Half ends, Espanyol 3, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

90'+2' Corner, (Es) Conceded by Willy Boly. Goal! 90'+1' Goal! Espanyol 3, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2. Jonathan Calleri (Es) header from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Pipa with a cross following a set piece situation. 90' Víctor Gómez (Es) wins a free kick on the right wing. 90' Foul by Maximilian Kilman (WW). 89' Offside, (WW) Rui Patrício tries a through ball, but Pedro Neto is caught offside. 88' Offside, (Es) Pol Lozano tries a through ball, but Pipa is caught offside. 87' Attempt missed. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left. 86' Corner, (Es) Conceded by Maximilian Kilman. 85' Foul by Jonathan Calleri (Es). 85' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 84' Corner, (Es) Conceded by Maximilian Kilman. 82' Attempt saved. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top left corner. Assisted by Matt Doherty. 82' Foul by Matías Vargas (Es). 82' Bruno Jordão (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. Goal!

79' Goal! Espanyol 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from very close range to the top right corner. Assisted by Daniel Podence. 78' sub, (WW) Bruno Jordão replaces Adama Traoré. 78' Hand ball by Adama Traoré (WW). 76' Attempt missed. Matías Vargas (Es) header from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by David López with a cross. 76' Attempt missed. Matías Vargas (Es) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Pipa with a cross. 75' sub, (Es) Pipa replaces Óscar Melendo because of an injury. 74' Adrià Pedrosa (Es) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 74' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 73' Foul by Jonathan Calleri (Es). 73' Willy Boly (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 71' Attempt saved. David López (Es) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Pol Lozano. 69' Óscar Melendo (Es) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 69' Foul by Matt Doherty (WW). 68' Offside, (Es) Víctor Gómez tries a through ball, but Wu Lei is caught offside. 67' sub, (Es) Wu Lei replaces Sergi Darder. Booking 66' Jonathan Calleri (Es) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Booking 66' Matías Vargas (Es) is shown the yellow card. 66' Foul by Jonathan Calleri (Es). 66' Conor Coady (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 65' Attempt missed. David López (Es) header from very close range is too high. Assisted by Sergi Darder with a cross following a corner. 65' Corner, (Es) Conceded by Matt Doherty.  64' sub, (WW) Pedro Neto replaces Morgan Gibbs-White. Booking 63' Morgan Gibbs-White (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 63' Óscar Melendo (Es) wins a free kick on the left wing. 63' Foul by Morgan Gibbs-White (WW). 62' Attempt missed. Morgan Gibbs-White (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Matt Doherty with a through ball.  61' sub, (Es) Pol Lozano replaces Víctor Sánchez. 61' Foul by Fernando Calero (Es). 61' Morgan Gibbs-White (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 58' sub, (WW) Romain Saïss replaces Rúben Vinagre. Goal! 57' Goal! Espanyol 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Jonathan Calleri (Es) converts the penalty with a right footed shot to the bottom right corner. Booking 56' Maximilian Kilman (WW) is shown the yellow card for a foul.  56' Penalty Espanyol. David López draws a foul in the penalty area. 56' Penalty conceded by Maximilian Kilman (WW) after a foul in the penalty area. 54'  Corner, (Es) Conceded by Rúben Vinagre. 52' Attempt missed. Daniel Podence (WW) right footed shot from more than 35 yards is high and wide to the right. 51' Attempt saved. Jonathan Calleri (Es) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Sergi Darder with a headed pass. 49' Attempt missed. Daniel Podence (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is just a bit too high. Assisted by João Moutinho following a fast break. 47' Attempt missed. Víctor Gómez (Es) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Óscar Melendo.

Second Half

Second Half begins Espanyol 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1.

Half Time

      Espanyol  Wolves

Possession 58%  42%

Shots       4    3

Shots on Tgt 2   1

Corners     3    3

Fouls       2    6

45'+1' First Half ends, Espanyol 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1.

45' Adrià Pedrosa (Es) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 45' Foul by Daniel Podence (WW). 44' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box misses to the left. 43' Hand ball by João Moutinho (WW). Booking 40' Víctor Sánchez (Es) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 40' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Naldo. 36' Offside, (Es) Matías Vargas tries a through ball, but Jonathan Calleri is caught offside. 33' Attempt missed. David López (Es) right footed shot from outside the box is too high following a corner. 33' Attempt blocked. Víctor Gómez (Es) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 33' Corner, (Es) Conceded by Conor Coady. 26' Foul by Óscar Melendo (Es). 26' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Goal!

22' Goal! Espanyol 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner.

22' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Daniel Podence. 20' Corner, (Es) Conceded by Conor Coady. 17' Foul by Víctor Gómez (Es). 17' Maximilian Kilman (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 17' Víctor Sánchez (Es) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 17' Foul by Morgan Gibbs-White (WW). Goal! 16' Goal! Espanyol 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0. Jonathan Calleri (Es) right footed shot from very close range to the top left corner. Assisted by Adrià Pedrosa with a cross. 15' Attempt blocked. Rúben Vinagre (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Leander Dendoncker. 14' Offside, (Es) Víctor Gómez tries a through ball, but Jonathan Calleri is caught offside. 11' Foul by Rúben Vinagre (WW). 11' Víctor Gómez (Es) wins a free kick on the right wing. 10' Attempt saved. Matías Vargas (Es) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Jonathan Calleri. 8' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Adrià Pedrosa. Booking 6' Adama Traoré (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 6' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 6' Óscar Melendo (Es) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 4' Corner, (Es) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 1' Foul by Willy Boly (WW). 1' Jonathan Calleri (Es) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

Kick Off

First Half begins.

Diogo Jota scored a hat-trick in Wolves' first-leg victory over Espanyol

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo says his side's 4-0 victory over Espanyol in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie "does not mean anything".  The Premier League club have one foot in the next round after Diogo Jota's hat-trick and Ruben Neves' goal, but Nuno says the "approach is the same". "This is a new game, a new challenge, so we have to compete well," said the Wolves boss. "The approach is the same. It doesn't mean anything what we did before."

Wolves are eighth in the English top flight, and in a commanding position in the tie, but they have travelled to Barcelona without injured defender Jonny.  The Spaniard was forced off in Wolves' league win over Norwich on Sunday and Nuno says the defender was on the receiving end of a "strong kick". "Jonny is not OK," added the Wolves boss. "You saw the images, there was a very strong impact. He's in pain, but he's going through the normal procedures and hopefully he doesn't stay out very long. "It is not almost nil-nil, it is nil-nil. It's a tough stadium to come."

Mission impossible for Espanyol?  Abelardo Fernandez accepts his Espanyol side face an "almost impossible" task to overturn the four-goal deficit but insists they will not go down without a fight. The La Liga side lost to relegation rivals Valladolid on Sunday to leave them bottom of the table, five points adrift of safety, but Fernandez insists his players will "be brave and daring". "It's almost impossible - we know that - but we will be looking to put up a good fight," said the Espanyol manager. "We need to score four goals and not concede any to take it to extra time. It's tough but you never know. If we could get to half-time 2-0 up then maybe we will give ourselves a chance. "I wish we could make it to the next round. We have to fight but also we have to a get a good feeling back among the supporters.  We need to be brave and daring - what the fans expect - and then who knows?"

Draw for last 16

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Espanyol are looking to overturn a 4-0 deficit from the first leg against Wolves. In Uefa Cup/Europa League history, there have been 221 occasions of a side losing a first leg by four or more goals - two of these sides have progressed (FK Partizan v QPR in 1984-85 and Real Madrid v Borussia Monchengladbach in 1985-86). Espanyol's only previous home game against an English opponent was in the 1961-62 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, beating Birmingham City 5-2.

Wolves Including qualifiers, Wolves are unbeaten in their six away games in European competition this season (W5 D1), scoring 17 goals in the process Wolves' only previous away match against Spanish opponents ended in a 4-0 defeat, back in February 1960 against Barcelona in the European Cup. Wolves forward Diogo Jota is the joint-top goalscorer in the 2019-20 Europa League with six goals - all coming in his past two appearances, with hat-tricks against Besiktas and Espanyol.

27 Sunday 23 February 2020 H Norwich 14:00 Molineux

t27 Wolves 3 Jota (19', 30'), Jiménez (50') Norwich 0

HT 2-0

Diogo Jota has scored 10 goals in his past 12 appearances in all competitions - he has only scored in four of those games, netting more than once on each occasion.  Diogo Jota made it five goals in two games as Wolves reignited their chase for a Champions League spot with victory against basement side Norwich. The Portuguese forward was at his lethal best in recording a hat-trick in the 4-0 Europa League victory over Espanyol on Thursday and he took just 19 minutes to add to his tally for the season. Initially it seemed Matt Doherty's assist would be ruled out for handball but replays showed that the ball bounced against his stomach. When the chance was presented to Jota he turned in one movement and struck a low shot through the legs of Tim Krul. Jota's second was also reviewed by VAR. The striker was offside when the ball was initially played into the area but drifted back onside to tap in Romain Saiss' volleyed cross. He came close to a second successive hat-trick as Wolves made it 3-0 soon after the break. His low strike thundered off the post but the loose ball was turned in by Raul Jimenez.

Norwich's brightest spell came in the opening 10 minutes when Teemu Pukki managed a shot at the near post before Kenny McLean's arrow of a strike from 20 yards was plucked out of the air by Rui Patricio. Canaries boss Daniel Farke might be aggrieved that Wolves full-back Jonny was not punished for stepping on the leg of Max Aarons, who was on the ground following a challenge.  However, of more concern was how his side lost their shape so soon after Wolves scored their opener. They remain seven points adrift of safety with only 11 games remaining. Wolves, on the other hand, are now two points shy of fifth - which could potentially become a Champions League spot - and five behind fourth-place  Chelsea.

Jota and Jimenez back on song

'The fear of celebrating is getting worse' - Nuno Espirito Santo on VAR Nuno Espirito Santo's men had only recorded one win in their past seven league games coming into the match, although there were signs his side might have turned a corner during the impressive win over Espanyol. Jota was the star that evening, taking his tally to nine in the competition this season. However, in the league he had only managed three before Sunday. But the 23-year-old, who initially joined the club on loan in 2017 when they were in the Championship, seems to have rediscovered his best form - and at the perfect time for Wolves as they push for their best-ever finish in the Premier League. Nuno will also be hoping Jimenez's first goal in four matches will also send him on a run. The Mexican forward has a great on-field understanding with Jota, and his initial charge from midfield led him to add the third goal. It was a match where Nuno started winger Adama Traore on the bench, perhaps to keep his potent winger fresh for a final push. The Wolves boss will need all his key attackers on form as the club aim for what could be one of their most memorable seasons.

Norwich crumble again - Norwich must be 'more greedy' in front of goal - Daniel Farke Is it too late for Farke to change his tactics as his side fight to stay in the league? His side have won admirers for their attacking intent in matches, but would setting up more defensively, akin to what Steve Bruce has done at Newcastle, reap them more points in the final third of this season? They have the pace and guile on the break with Todd Cantwell and Pukki in attack, supported by the swift full-backs. It was during an early counter-attack that they caused Wolves problems when Pukki's close-range effort produced a good save from Patricio. And with the wind in their sails they pressed Wolves back again as McLean tested the agility of the Portuguese keeper with a firm long-range effort. But then the visitors reminded us all why they have the second worst defence in the league - they allowed both Doherty and Jota to turn for the first goal, then three defenders went AWOL as Jota was left alone to tuck in the second. Norwich had keeper Krul to thank for keeping it at 3-0 after he pushed Ruben Neves' strike on to the bar, then saved Doherty's late header with his legs. It is Leicester next for Norwich, followed by Sheffield United - their Premier League fate might be all but decided by the first week of March.

No punishment for Jonny - Jonny and Max Aarons collide There was one contentious moment prior to the Wolves opener when Jonny trod on Max Aarons' leg when the Norwich player was on the ground following a challenge. The right-back looked in pain but Jonny's action was judged as accidental. The replay showed the Spanish full-back was trying to hurdle over his opponent and caught him with his boot. The incident came a day after VAR decided the tackle by Tottenham's Giovani lo Celso's on Chelsea Cesar Azpilicueta did not warrant a red card.

Man of the match - Diogo Jota (Wolves)

Diogo Jota received a deserved standing ovation with his two goals from four efforts in total during the match 'You need to be convinced and not scared' - reaction Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo on Jota: "He is always confident. We know a player's performance can go up and down. It's the right decisions, the right solutions we try to find to keep sustaining his performance - not only him, but all the team. Of course, I'm delighted with his goals. It's nothing specific. These things happen. His last touch has been clinical, Thursday and today. Hopefully it continues."

Norwich manager Daniel Farke on needing more from his players: "You have to give your life with each and every duel and I got the feeling that sometimes we were a bit soft and scared. "We need to be greedy to win the duel, and unbelievably sharp. You need to be convinced and not scared. I think we lacked that and I'm disappointed with that fact."

Lucky omen Jota - the stats

Wolves earned their biggest win in the Premier League since January 2019 (3-0 v West Ham), while they have only won by a larger margin once previously in the competition - 4-0 v Blackpool in February 2011.  Norwich have won just 18 points in the Premier League this season - of the previous 15 instances of a team having 18 or fewer points at this stage, only three have managed to avoid relegation (West Brom in 2004-05, Portsmouth in 2005-06 and Leicester in 2014-15).

Wolves have kept three consecutive clean sheets in the top-flight for the first time since between October and November 1981 (five in a row).

Since beating Manchester City in September 2019, Norwich have been winless in their last 11 games against teams starting the day in the top half of the Premier League (D5 L6). Wolves are unbeaten in the 10 Premier League games when Jota has scored, picking up the victory on eight of those occasions (two draws). Jimenez has scored more Premier League goals than any other player this season without ever netting the first goal in a match (12). Doherty has been directly involved in 13 goals in the Premier League since the start of last season (seven goals and six assists), the third-most of any defender in this period behind Trent Alexander-Arnold (25) and Andrew Robertson (18).

What's next? Norwich host Leicester on Friday (20:00 GMT) and Wolves are at Espanyol on Thursday (17:55 GMT) for the return leg of their Europa League last-32 tie.

Line-ups

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 15Boly 16Coady booked 68' 27Saïss 2Doherty 32Dendoncker 8Neves 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto sub Vinagreat 80' 9Jiménez booked 41' sub Traoréat 72' 18Jota sub Netoat 64' Substitutes 7Neto 10Castelo Podence 17Gibbs-White 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 37Traoré 49Kilman

Norwich

1Krul 2Aarons booked 45' 4Godfrey booked 77' 5Hanley 12Lewis 27Tettey 23McLean 7Rupp sub Buendíaat 59' booked 87' 25Duda sub Drmicat 59' 14Cantwell sub Stiepermannat 84' 22Pukki Substitutes 8Vrancic 17Buendía 18Stiepermann 19Trybull 20Drmic 21Fährmann 35Idah

Referee: Chris Kavanagh Attendance: 31,046

Match Stats

       Wolves Norwich

Possession 40% 60%

Shots      19   6

Shots on Tgt 6  4

Corners     4   1

Fouls      11   6

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Norwich City 0.

Full Time 90'+6' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Norwich City 0.

90'+5' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Conor Coady. 90'+2' Attempt saved. Ben Godfrey (Nor) header from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía. 90'+1' Kenny McLean (Nor) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+1' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 90' Attempt missed. Rúben Vinagre (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box misses to the left. 89' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) header from the right side of the six yard box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Rúben Vinagre with a cross. Booking 87' Emiliano Buendía (Nor) is shown the yellow card. 86' Foul by Emiliano Buendía (Nor). 86' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 85' Max Aarons (Nor) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 85' Foul by Matt Doherty (WW). 85' Attempt blocked. Rúben Vinagre (WW) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Matt Doherty with a cross. 84' Sub, (Nor) Marco Stiepermann replaces Todd Cantwell. 80' Sub, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Rúben Vinagre replaces Jonny because of an injury. 78' VAR Decision: No card change Ben Godfrey (Nor). Booking 77' Ben Godfrey (Nor) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 77' Foul by Ben Godfrey (Nor). 77' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 76' Kenny McLean (Nor) wins a free kick on the left wing. 76' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 72' Sub, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Adama Traoré replaces Raúl Jiménez. Booking 68' Conor Coady (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 66' Attempt missed. Teemu Pukki (Nor) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Josip Drmic following a fast break. 64' Sub, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Pedro Neto replaces Diogo Jota. 62' Corner, (Nor) Conceded by João Moutinho. 61' Todd Cantwell (Nor) wins a free kick on the right wing. 61' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 59' Sub, (Nor) Josip Drmic replaces Ondrej Duda. 59' Sub, (Nor) Emiliano Buendía replaces Lukas Rupp. 58' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Matt Doherty. 58' Attempt missed. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the left. 55' Attempt saved. Max Aarons (Nor) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Todd Cantwell. Goal!

50' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Norwich City 0. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from very close range to the top left corner following a fast break.

50' Diogo Jota (WW) hits the right post with a right footed shot from the centre of the box following a fast break. 49' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Diogo Jota.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Norwich City 0.

Half Time 45'+3' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Norwich City 0.

45'+2' Attempt saved. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top right corner. Booking 45' Max Aarons (Nor) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 45' Foul by Max Aarons (Nor). 45' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 42' Ben Godfrey (Nor) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 42' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). Booking 41' Raúl Jiménez (WW) is shown the yellow card for a foul. 41' Todd Cantwell (Nor) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 41' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW).  40' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Tim Krul. 40' Attempt saved. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from long range on the left is saved in the bottom left corner. 39' Foul by Max Aarons (Nor). 39' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 39' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Jonny. 38' Foul by Teemu Pukki (Nor). 38' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 37' Attempt blocked. Matt Doherty (WW) left footed shot from a difficult angle on the left is blocked. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 37' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the right side of the six yard box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 36' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Alexander Tettey. 36' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 34' Foul by Lukas Rupp (Nor). 34' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 31' VAR Decision: Goal Wolverhampton Wanderers - Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 Norwich City (Diogo Jota).

Goal!

30' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Norwich City 0. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from very close range to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Romain Saïss following a corner.Goal confirmed following VAR Review.

30' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) right footed shot from a difficult angle on the right misses to the left. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez following a corner. 30' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Jonny with a cross following a corner. 29' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Max Aarons.  27' Max Aarons (Nor) wins a free kick on the right  wing. 27' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 23' Offside, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Rúben Neves tries a through ball, but Willy Boly is caught offside. 22' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Alexander Tettey. 22' Ondrej Duda (Nor) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 22' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW).

Goal!

19' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Norwich City 0. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Matt Doherty.

17' Attempt blocked. Alexander Tettey (Nor) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Ondrej Duda. 13' Todd Cantwell (Nor) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 13' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 11' Attempt saved. Kenny McLean (Nor) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Teemu Pukki. 10' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 10' Grant Hanley (Nor) wins a free kick on the left wing. 7' Attempt saved. Teemu Pukki (Nor) right footed shot from the left side of the six yard box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Kenny McLean with a cross. 3' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 3' Ondrej Duda (Nor) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

Kick Off First Half begins.

Nuno Espirito Santo's Wolves side thrashed Espanyol 4-0 in their Europa League last 16 first-leg match on Thursday night

TEAM NEWS

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo is likely to have an unchanged squad. Ruben Vinagre is expected to remain sidelined, but there could be changes to the side that beat Espanyol in the Europa League on Thursday.

Norwich defender Sam Byram will miss the rest of the season following hamstring surgery. Christoph Zimmermann is a doubt with a hamstring injury of his own, while winger Onel Hernandez's knee problem will be assessed.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

Ben Andrews: Four unanswered goals in the Europa League brought a much-needed return to form for Wolves. Their record showed one solitary win in nine before Thursday's demolition of Espanyol; they now return to what's becoming quite a fight for this year's European places.

Norwich, meanwhile, have all but run out of time to mount what would be a truly great escape. They're eight points from safety with 12 games to play. Since the shock victory over Manchester City five months and 21 games ago, the Canaries have won just twice in the league, while the previously prolific Teemu Pukki has only a pair of penalties to show for 2020 thus far. Extra freshness may be their best hope here…

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo speaking after their win over Espanyol on Thursday: "We competed well, and the result is the consequence of what we did. It's another clean sheet, so defensive-wise we were really well. Then, you let the players develop their talent on the pitch, so I'm happy with the consistency of the team. Now we have a couple of days to play Norwich, we have to rest, recover and compete well on Sunday."

Norwich head coach Daniel Farke: "They are playing in Europe, they have kept three clean sheets, they have individual quality and it is a huge task. But I don't see any easy fixtures at this stage. It is about us. We always have a chance if we are good at our topics. People can write us off and say we have no chance to close the gap. But I don't agree. It is possible."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

The Canaries are seven points off safety now, and their chances of survival are obviously not looking too good. They are struggling and, while they pushed Wolves hard at Carrow Road earlier in the season, I do not see them getting anything at Molineux. Prediction: 2-0

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head -After a run of three straight victories over Wolves, Norwich have failed to win any of the past three encounters.

Norwich have won only two of their 27 league away fixtures against Wolves - both times in the second tier, in September 1995 and October 2016.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have dropped points in nine of their 13 Premier League home fixtures this season, as many games as they did during the whole of the 2018-19 campaign.  They have drawn consecutive league matches 0-0 for the first time since April 2010. The last team to have three goalless draws in a row in the Premier League was West Ham in December 2015. Wolves have led for just 305 minutes in league matches this season - but have recovered an unrivalled 18 points from losing positions. Only Sheffield United have had more Premier League goals ruled out by VAR this season than Wolves' four.

Norwich City have only won once in 13 Premier League games. Their away record is the worst in the division, with a solitary win coming at Everton in November. They are the only club not to have earned a top-flight point from a losing position this season. Daniel Farke's side have not scored from open play in any of their past five league fixtures, with their only two goals in that time being penalties by Teemu Pukki. Seventeen of Norwich's 24 Premier League goals this campaign have been scored by Pukki (11) or Todd Cantwell (six). No other player has scored more than once for the Canaries this season. Norwich have 18 points after 26 matches. The fewest points a team has had after 27 fixtures of a Premier League season and gone on to avoid relegation is 18: West Bromwich Albion (2004-05), Portsmouth (2005-06) and Leicester City (2014-15).

EU 32 Wolves v RCD Espanyol 8pm ko  (Dec 16 draw)    W4-0

EU32H Wolves 4 Jota (15', 67', 81'), Neves (52') Espanyol 0

HT1-0

Diogo Jota has now scored six goals in his last two Europa League games

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo accepts the club's fans may start to dream of Europa League glory after his team took a huge step towards reaching the last 16 by thrashing Espanyol.  Diogo Jota scored a hat-trick for the second consecutive game in the competition and Ruben Neves hit a stunning long-range volley as they dominated the first leg of their last-32 tie at Molineux. It was another impressive result in the competition for Wolves, who have not looked out of place in Europe despite an absence of 40 years.  Asked whether he felt the club's fans are right to believe they could win the tournament, Nuno said: "They know me, now we have to recover, rest because we play on Sunday. "After that we can think about other things but dreaming is for free." Wolves are fifth favourites with bookmakers to win the Europa League, with Antonio Conte's Inter Milan tipped to lift the trophy this season.  However, English sides have been in good form in the competition in recent years. Last year's final was an all-English one contested between Chelsea and Arsenal, while a side from the Premier League has reached the final in three of the past four seasons.  However, Nuno is adamant Wolves cannot take progress to the last 16 for granted, despite their 4-0 lead.  "The tie is not over," he added. "Football is never over. We competed well, the result is the consequences of what we did. We were clinical and that's what we want. It's another clean sheet, defensively we did really well and everything starts from there."

Jota plays starring role - again

Given Wolves' recent inability to start games strongly, this proved an unusually stress-free match for them. In fact, Jota's opening goal after 15 minutes - his effort deflecting in off Victor Sanchez following a corner - was something of a collector's item as it was the first time Nuno's side have scored first in a match since the 4-0 defeat of Besiktas on 12 December, 13 games ago. The other similarity with that game and this was Jota's devastating finishing, scoring hat-tricks on both occasions. The 23-year-old Portuguese is the first player in eight years (since Klaas-Jan Huntelaar for Schalke in 2012) to register back-to-back hat-tricks in this competition, and he has now been directly involved in 14 goals in 11 European games this season.  "I'm happy for him, delighted because when a player scores three goals it means he has helped a lot," Nuno added. "He did a good job, not only offensively but covering and was always organised. Neves also scored a beautiful goal." Only once did Wolves look like surrendering the initiative, in rather comical fashion as striker Raul Jimenez miscued what was intended to be a hefty punt downfield. Instead, the Mexican sent the ball looping from quite a height into his own six-yard box. Keeper Rui Patricio completely messed up two attempts to clear and was fortunate to have recovered his position by the time Facundo Ferreyra scuffed his shot and was able to keep it out.  It was a rare moment of panic on a memorable night for Wolves and the result means they have scored four goals without reply in Europe four times this season.

Wolves could win it Wolves' European heritage is rich, if not particularly extensive - or recent. This is Wolves' eighth European campaign but their first since 1980-81. It was the first time they had still been involved after Christmas since 1972, when they were beaten in the Uefa Cup final by Tottenham. Having started in the second qualifying round against Northern Ireland side Crusaders on 25 July, they have now played 13 fixtures and while the final in Gdansk on 27 May is a further seven matches away, Nuno's well-drilled outfit are not without hope of lifting the trophy, especially if the increasingly influential Adama Traore stays fit. At Aston Villa and Middlesbrough, Traore appeared to have little going for him other than staggering pace. Over the past 12 months, the Spaniard has developed his game awareness to a significantly higher degree. Every time he took possession, a buzz of anticipation went round the stadium. He won the corner which led to Jota's opener and it was his cross which helped tee up Neves for his stunning volley. And while Jota will take the headlines for the quantity of his goals, it was the quality of Neves's strike - chesting the ball down and smashing it into the corner - which provided the real highlight of the night. The only sour moment came just before half-time when a routine push and shove between Jota and Ander Iturraspe escalated after the former Spain midfielder appeared to make a forward movement towards the Wolves man as he stuck his forehead into him. German referee Tobias Stieler quickly whisked out a yellow card to the incredulity of the home supporters, who felt it was a certain red. In the end, it mattered little and Wolves have now won 10 out of their past 11 home games in European competition, a run that stretches back to 1973. They may have a few more games at Molineux to play yet. In a run stretching back to October 1973, Wolves have won 10 of their last 11 home games in all European competition, winning to nil in each of their last three.

Man of the match - Ruben Neves (NO - JOTA see scoring)

Twelve of Neves' 15 goals this season have been scored from outside the box. The other three were penalties Neves' love for long-rangers - the best stats Wolverhampton Wanderers have kept three successive clean sheets in all competitions for the first time since October 2019.

Wolves forward Jimenez has been directly involved in 30 goals in all competitions this season (20 goals, 10 assists); three more than any other Premier League player. Twelve of Ruben Neves' 15 goals for Wolves in all competitions have come from outside the box, the other three have been from the penalty spot.

What's next? Wolves' next game is at home to the Premier League's bottom club, Norwich, on Sunday, 23 February (14:00 GMT).

Line ups

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 15Boly 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 28João Moutinho booked 44' 8Neves 19Castro Otto 37Traoré sub Dendoncker at 61' 9Jiménez sub Neto at 75' 18Jota sub Castelo Podence at 83' Substitutes 6Cavaco Jordão 7Neto 10Castelo Podence 21Ruddy 30Campana 32Dendoncker 49Kilman

Espanyol

1Prieto 34Gómez booked 67' Should have been RED  sub Darder at 76' 5Gomes Pereira 24Calero 17Vilá 7Wu 4Sánchez booked 78' 8Iturraspe booked 43' sub López at 61' 22Vargas 14Melendo sub Calleri at 62' 9Ferreyra Substitutes 3Pedrosa 10Darder 12Calleri 13López 5López 18Cabrera 3Embarba

Referee: Tobias Stieler Attendance: 30,435

Player ratings

Rui Patricio

A bizarre air-shot was almost punished by Ferreyra for the visitors, but the keeper managed to make the save and kept his third clean sheet on the spin. 7

Willy Boly - Another commanding performance from the Frenchman, who has shown no signs of rust after returning from a broken ankle. The top-drawer defender was an unbeatable force in Wolves' back three. 8

Conor Coady - After keeping Jamie Vardy quiet last week, Coady was again rarely troubled and put in an assured display. 7

Romain Saiss - Another display full of grit, as well as ability, from a player who is relishing his role at the back now. 7

Matt Doherty - Much more like it from the Irishman, displaying a lot more attacking intent and setting up Jota's second. Showed a good burst of pace on several occasions and won a fair amount of headers, too. 8

Joao Moutinho - A typically superb corner was flicked on by Jimenez for Jota's opener, and the Portuguese continued to operate with class throughout the clash. 8

Ruben Neves eo- What a stupendous strike it was to make it 2-0! The funny thing is, though, given Neves's already-extensive showreel, it may not even be in his top three. While not quite as stunning as his scorcher against Derby in the Championship, the talent shown as he chested the ball down and volleyed it past a helpless Prieto cannot be understated. The work of a true artist, who has performed at such a high standard as of late. 9

Jonny Castro Otto - Goes under the radar sometimes, but Otto is another who has been playing very well for quite a while now. So solid, in every game. 8

Adama Traore - Won the corner for the first goal through some nice play on the right. Taken off on the hour, perhaps with an eye on Norwich. 7

Raul Jimenez - Nice flick-on to Jota as Wolves broke the deadlock, and some clever hold-up play throughout the encounter. 7

Diogo Jota -Back-to-back hat-tricks in the Europa League. Just let that sink in. After a couple of fairly underwhelming performances from Jota upon his return from injury, the onus was on him to shine here. And he was outstanding, too hot to handle for Espanyol as he grabbed an outrageous hat-trick. The first two goals took nicks off defenders on their way through, not that he will care, before he saved his best until last and went off to a standing ovation. A reminder of what a special player Jota is. 10

Subs Leander Dendoncker (for Traore, 60) Added steel in midfield as Wolves gained more control. 7

Pedro Neto (for Jimenez, 75) A few nice touches in his 15 minutes. 6

Daniel Podence (for Jota, 83) N/A

Subs not used: Ruddy (gk), Kilman, Jordao, Campana

FT     Wolves Espanyol

Possession 43%  57%

Shots      12    9

Shots on Tgt 5   4

Corners     5    1

Fouls       9   11

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 4, Espanyol 0.

Full Time 90'+4' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 4, Espanyol 0.

90'+2' Matías Vargas (Esp) wins a free kick in the defensive half.  90'+2' Foul by Matt Doherty (WW). 90'+1' Attempt saved. Jonathan Calleri (Esp) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Facundo Ferreyra. 90' Foul by Jonathan Calleri (Esp). 90' Rúben Neves (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 84' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Sergi Darder. 83' Foul by Sergi Darder (Esp). 83' Daniel Podence (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 83' Sub, (WW) Daniel Podence replaces Diogo Jota. Goal!

81' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 4, Espanyol 0. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from outside the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by João Moutinho.

79' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Naldo. 79' Attempt blocked. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Booking 78' Víctor Sánchez (Esp) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 78' Foul by Víctor Sánchez (Esp). 78' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the  attacking half. 77' Pedro Neto (WW) hits the right post with a left footed shot from outside the box. 76' Sub, (Esp) Sergi Darder replaces Víctor Gómez. 75' Hand ball by Wu Lei (Esp). 75' Sub, (WW) Pedro Neto replaces Raúl Jiménez. 74' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Fernando Calero. 71' Attempt saved. Wu Lei (Esp) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by David López. 68' Attempt saved. David López (Esp) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Matías Vargas with a headed pass. Goal!

67' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Espanyol 0. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the top right corner. Assisted by Matt Doherty with a through ball.

Booking 67' Víctor Gómez (Esp) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 66' Foul by Víctor Gómez (Esp). 66' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. Should have been RED 63' Hand ball by Matt Doherty (WW). 62' Sub, (Esp) Jonathan Calleri replaces Óscar Melendo. 61' Sub, (Esp) David López replaces Ander Iturraspe. 61' Sub, (WW) Leander Dendoncker replaces Adama Traoré. 59' Hand ball by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 58' Attempt missed. Víctor Gómez (Esp) right footed shot from the right side of the box is high and wide to the right. 57' Óscar Melendo (Esp) wins a free kick on the left wing. 57' Foul by Matt Doherty (WW). 56' Offside, (WW) Diogo Jota tries a through ball, but Adama Traoré is  caught offside. 55' Attempt missed. Wu Lei (Esp) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Víctor Gómez with a cross. Goal!

52' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Espanyol 0. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box to the bottom left corner.

49' Attempt missed. Wu Lei (Esp) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Óscar Melendo with a cross. 46' Foul by Ander Iturraspe (Esp). 46' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

Second Half

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Espanyol 0.

HT     Wolves Espanyol

Possession 41%  59%

Shots       7    3

Shots on Tgt 1   1

Corners     2    1

Fouls       5    5

10'

Possession 80%  20%

Half Time 45'+4' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Espanyol 0.

45'+2' Víctor Gómez (Esp) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 45'+2' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 45'+1' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 45' Dídac Vilá (Esp) wins a free kick on the left wing. 45' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). Booking 44' João Moutinho (WW) is shown the yellow card. Booking 43' Ander Iturraspe (Esp) is shown the yellow card. 43' Foul by Ander Iturraspe (Esp). 43' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 41' Foul by Fernando Calero (Esp). 41' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 40' Attempt blocked. Matías Vargas (Esp) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Facundo Ferreyra. 39' Facundo Ferreyra (Esp) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 39' Foul by Conor Coady (WW). 35' Foul by Facundo Ferreyra (Esp).  35' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 32' Attempt saved. Facundo Ferreyra (Esp) left footed shot from the left side of the six yard box is saved in the bottom left corner. 26' Óscar Melendo (Esp) wins a free kick on the right wing. 26' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 24' Corner, (Esp) Conceded by João Moutinho. 23' Attempt blocked. Óscar Melendo (Esp) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. 22' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 22' Foul by Matías Vargas (Esp). 19' Attempt saved. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez with a through ball. Goal!

15' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Espanyol 0. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from very close range to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez following a corner.

15' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the right side of the six yard box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 14' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Ander Iturraspe. 11' Foul by Jonny (WW). 11' Wu Lei (Esp) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 9' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Jonny following a corner. 8' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Víctor Gómez. 7' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. 6' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 6' Foul by Matías Vargas (Esp). 3' Attempt missed. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez.

Kick Off First Half begins.

prematch

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo is counting on the atmosphere at Molineux to inspire his team when they face Espanyol in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie on Thursday. Wolves, runners-up in the competition in 1972 when it was known as the Uefa Cup, began this season's run in July. "The group stages, all the games were a full house," said Nuno. "We want to have this atmosphere at Molineux, our fans helping us, creating a fantastic atmosphere."

Espanyol are currently bottom of La Liga, but the Portuguese boss still expects a difficult test for his team. "The table doesn't mean anything, it's a different competition and we're going to face a very tough opponent with quality players," he added. "Abelardo [Fernandez] is a good manager. I know him, I've faced him before and it's going to be very tough for us. Espanyol is a very good team. There are differences in the competitions, but I'm not a 100% follower of La Liga now. We've worked really hard on Espanyol to find the details that we think our players need to do a good game and compete well."

TEAM NEWS

Wolves have no new injury worries. Wing-back Ruben Vinagre remains sidelined with a hamstring problem he suffered in the FA Cup defeat by Manchester United on 15 January. "He is out, but he is really close to returning and joining the group again," said Nuno. Espanyol will be without January signing Raul de Tomas, who has scored five goals in five games for them.

MATCH FACTS

Wolves' only previous meeting with Spanish opponents came in the 1959-60 European Cup quarter-final, where they were eliminated by Barcelona 9-2 on aggregate (4-0 away, 5-2 at home). Espanyol's only previous meeting with English opponents was in the second round of the 1961-62 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, eliminating Birmingham City 5-3 on aggregate (0-1 away, 5-2 at home). In a run stretching back to October 1973, Wolves have won nine of their last 10 home games in all European competitions - losing only against Braga on matchday one this season. The last time Espanyol were in the knockout stages of a major European competition they reached the final, eventually losing on penalties against Sevilla in the 2006-07 Uefa Cup. Including qualifiers, Raul Jimenez has been involved in 12 goals in his 11 games in European competition for Wolves this season, scoring nine and assisting three.

26 Friday 14 February 2020 H Leicester 20:00 Molineux BT D0-0

26 Wolves 0 Leicester 0

Boly's header was the fourth goal Wolves have had disallowed by VAR this season. Only Sheffield United (five) have had more

Wolves missed out on the chance to close the gap on the top four as they were held to a goalless draw by 10-man Leicester City amid more VAR controversy.  Just before half-time, Willy Boly looked to have opened the scoring for the hosts after a short corner routine but his close-range header was ruled out with Pedro Neto judged to be offside in build-up. Leicester midfielder Hamza Choudhury was sent off 14 ' from the end of normal time after collecting two bookings in the second half.  But in a game full of incident and goalscoring chances, the main talking point was Boly's disallowed effort.  Only Sheffield United, with five, have had more goals ruled out by VAR decisions in the Premier League this term than Nuno Espirito Santo's side and the decision was greeted with derision by the home supporters who chanted 'What a load of rubbish' and 'Is it football anymore?' The result leaves Leicester third in the table, a point behind Manchester City. However, Wolves move up to seventh, three points behind Sheffield United in fifth, and well-placed to compete for a Champions League place next term, if City's ban from European club competitions is upheld and England retains four clubs in the competition.

Wolves 0-0 Leicester: Nuno Espirito Santo admits VAR could lead to 'robot' players

Strikers draw blanks While the early parts of this game suggested the sides could emulate the seven-goal thrillers that have marked their last two Premier League meetings at Molineux, that hope fizzled away largely due to poor finishing. Raul Jimenez was chief culprit for the hosts, heading three excellent opportunities either over or wide of the Leicester goal and slashing woefully at a left-foot shot that drifted wide of Kasper Schmeichel's and remained in play. When Wolves did hit the target, Schmeichel was there to deny them, brilliantly stretching out his left leg to prevent Diogo Jota from scoring and blocking Adama Traore's stinging stoppage-time shot at point-blank range. Jamie Vardy fared no better for the visitors. After the hour mark the Premier League's leading marksman had touched the ball just seven times on his 200th Premier League appearance for the Foxes. And the 33-year-old's evening did not get any better as he failed to register a single shot, meaning he has now gone six Premier League games without a goal - his longest run without a top-flight goal since he went seven games between December 2016 and February 2017.

Wolves 0-0 Leicester: Brendan Rodgers pleased with draw

Winter break woes?

While Brendan Rodgers gave his squad seven days off after their 2-2 draw with Chelsea on 1 February and Wolves took their players on a warm-weather training trip to Spain, at times the purpose of those breaks - to recharge - did not look to have worked. Both sets of players appeared to run out of ideas and legs at times on a spongy Molineux surface. Nine of the 11 Foxes players to start the game had made over 20 Premier League starts this term but, while Brendan Rodger's consistency of selection has helped them to third in the table, they struggled to find their previous spark. Wolves, who playing their 42nd game of the season, started with eight players who have started 20 Premier League games or more. The Foxes have now taken five points from the last available 15, while Wolves have managed six in the same period.  

Man of the match - Jonny (Wolves) pic Wolves Jonny tackles Marc Albrighton Jonny made the most tackles of any player (six) 'I thought we deserved a point' - what they said Wolves manager Nuno Espirto Santo to BBC Match of the Day: "It is not about frustration but realising what we did in the game and now analyse to say 'we could (have won)'. Leicester had possession in the first half but did not create, we scored in the first half and dominated a very good team. The boys created many chances but it requires more work from us to complete the actions. Raul Jimenez was there, (it will happen for him) in the next game. The work rate he did was amazing. He did not put it inside the net but his it is amazing how he works and creates for the team. We go again on Thursday and hope things will happen. I saw a lot of energy from the players and this is what I am happy about, we are ready for the tough cycle."

Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers speaking to BBC Match of the Day: "I thought we deserved a point. They are always a threat on the counter. It was impressive for us to keep a clean sheet with 10 men. We probably could've been quicker around the attack - the build-up play was good - but away from home you expect to come under pressure and it ends up being a very good point and keeping the gap to 14 points between us." On the VAR decisions: "I think his big toe was offside! It's unfortunate. We're disappointed to give the corner away. We've had a number that have gone for and against and you just have to keep the team calm. I didn't think it was a red card for us, so it's unfortunate."

Firing blanks - the stats - Wolves have drawn consecutive league games without scoring for the first time since April 2010, when they drew 0-0 against Stoke and Fulham. Two of Leicester's three goalless draws in the Premier League under Brendan Rodgers have come against Wolves. Since returning to the Premier League in 2014-15, Leicester have received 19 red cards - the joint-most of any team in that time (level with Everton and Watford). Only Aston Villa (6) have seen their opponents receive more red cards in Premier League games this season than Wolves (5). Since joining Leicester, Jamie Vardy has played more league games against Wolves without scoring than any other side (6). Vardy became only the second Leicester player to make 200 Premier League appearances for the club, after Muzzy Izzet (222). Aged 33 years and 34 days, Vardy is the oldest Englishman to reach 200 appearances in the competition since Alan Stubbs (35y 323d) in August 2007.

What next? Wolves travel to Norwich next Sunday, 23 February (14:00 GMT), while Leicester host Manchester City on Saturday, 22 February (17:30 GMT) knowing a win will send them above Pep Guardiola's side into second.

Line-ups

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 15Boly 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 32Dendoncker Booked 55' 8Neves Booked 45' sub João Moutinhoat 81'19Castro Otto 7Neto sub Traoréat 64' 18Jota sub Castelo Podenceat 78'9Jiménez Substitutes 10Castelo Podence 17Gibbs-White 21Ruddy 28João Moutinho 37Traoré 49Kilman 59Buur

Leicester

1Schmeichel 21Ricardo Pereira 6Evans 4Söyüncü 3Chilwell Booked 88' 20Choudhury Booked 76' 17Pérez sub Albrightonat 68'' 8Tielemans sub Praetat 75'10Maddison Booked 36' 15Barnes sub Morganat 90+4'9Vardy Substitutes 2Justin 5Morgan 7Gray 11Albrighton 12Ward 14Iheanacho 26Praet

Referee: Mike Dean Attendance: 31,682

Match Stats FT

         Wolves Leicester

Possession  41% 59%

Shots       15   9

Shots on Tgt 3   3

Corners      7   0

Fouls       13  10

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Leicester City 0.

Full Time 90'+6' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Leicester City 0.

90'+5' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Çaglar Söyüncü. 90'+5' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 90'+4' Attempt saved. Adama Traoré (WW) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by João Moutinho. 90'+4' Sub, (LC) Wes Morgan replaces Harvey Barnes. 90'+3' Offside, (WW) Willy Boly tries a through ball, but Daniel Podence is caught offside. 90'+2' Attempt blocked. Marc Albrighton (LC) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 90'+2' Attempt blocked. Dennis Praet (LC) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Jonny Evans with a headed pass. 90'+2' Ricardo Pereira (LC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 90'+2' Foul by Daniel Podence (WW). 90' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 90' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Marc Albrighton. Booking 88' Ben Chilwell (LC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 88' Foul by Ben Chilwell (LC). 88' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 85' Attempt missed. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. Assisted by Matt Doherty. 83' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. 82' Foul by Çaglar Söyüncü (LC). 82' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing.  81' Sub, (WW) João Moutinho replaces Rúben Neves. 81' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. 78' Sub, (WW) Daniel Podence replaces Diogo Jota. Dismissal 76' Second yellow card to Hamza Choudhury (LC) for a bad foul. 76' Foul by Hamza Choudhury (LC). 76' Leander Dendoncker (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half.  75' Sub, (LC) Dennis Praet replaces Youri Tielemans. 74' Marc Albrighton (LC) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 74' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 72' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Ben Chilwell. 70' Attempt blocked. Jonny (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 70' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Çaglar Söyüncü. 68' Sub, (LC) Marc Albrighton replaces Ayoze Pérez. 66' Attempt blocked. Harvey Barnes (LC) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Ricardo Pereira with a cross. 65' Hand ball by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 64' Sub, (WW) Adama Traoré replaces Pedro Neto. 62' Youri Tielemans (LC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 62' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 61' Foul by Jonny Evans (LC). 61' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 60' VAR Decision: No Penalty Leicester City. 58' Attempt saved. Youri Tielemans (LC) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by James Maddison. Booking 55' Leander Dendoncker (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 55' Harvey Barnes (LC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 55' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 52'  Attempt blocked. Romain Saïss (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Booking 51' Hamza Choudhury (LC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 51' Foul by Hamza Choudhury (LC). 51' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 50' Attempt missed. Ricardo Pereira (LC) right footed shot from a difficult angle on the right misses to the right. Assisted by Ayoze Pérez. 49' Attempt blocked. Ayoze Pérez (LC) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Leicester City 0.

Half Time 45'+4' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Leicester City 0.

45'+4' Foul by Ricardo Pereira (LC). 45'+4' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 45'+3' Ayoze Pérez (LC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 45'+3' Foul by Jonny (WW). Booking 45'+1' Rúben Neves (WW) is shown the yellow card.  

45' VAR Decision: No Goal Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-0 Leicester City.  44' GOAL OVERTURNED BY VAR: Willy Boly (WW) scores but the goal is ruled out after a VAR review. 44' Offside, (WW) Diogo Jota tries a through ball, but Pedro Neto is caught offside. 43' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Ben Chilwell. 42' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Jonny with a cross. 41' Jamie Vardy (LC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 41' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 41' Attempt missed. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the left. 40' James Maddison (LC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 40' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW).  Booking 36' James Maddison (LC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 36' Foul by James Maddison (LC). 36' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 30' Youri Tielemans (LC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 30' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 29' Attempt missed. Jonny (WW) header from the centre of the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Matt Doherty with a cross. 28' Attempt missed. Jonny Evans (LC) header from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Ben Chilwell with a cross following a set piece situation. 28' Harvey Barnes (LC) wins a free kick on the left wing. 28' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 26' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 25' Foul by Youri Tielemans (LC). 25' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 24' Attempt saved. Çaglar Söyüncü (LC) header from the left side of the six yard box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by James  Maddison with a cross. 23' Ricardo Pereira (LC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 23' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 18' Attempt missed. Leander Dendoncker (WW) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Pedro Neto following a corner. 17' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Ricardo Pereira. 16' Foul by Ricardo Pereira (LC). 16' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 15' Youri Tielemans (LC) wins a free kick in the defensive half.  15' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 11' Attempt saved. Willy Boly (WW) header from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Pedro Neto with a cross. 11' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Kasper Schmeichel. 11' Attempt saved. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Pedro Neto. 9' Attempt saved. Youri Tielemans (LC) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by James Maddison. 6' Ricardo Pereira (LC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 6' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 4' Hand ball by Hamza Choudhury (LC). Kick Off

First Half begins.

TEAM NEWS

Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers says Wilfred Ndidi is a doubt to play on Friday because he remains short of full fitness after a knee operation. Ryan Bennett is ineligible due to the terms of his loan deal with Wolves, but Wes Morgan and Matty James should be involved.

Wolves forward Adama Traore will be available despite dislocating his shoulder against Manchester United. Ruben Vinagre remains out with a hamstring injury.

How Adama Traore went from unreliable at Barcelona to unplayable at Wolves

Rodgers defends Maddison over Dubai night out

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@Guymowbray: A Wolves win would actually put them sixth at least until Sunday. When you consider that this is game 42 of a season that started in July, you can only applaud how Nuno Espirito Santo has met the demands of home and Europe together.  Yes, they have resources, but not a huge squad. Indeed, no team has fielded fewer than the 20 players to feature in the Premier League for Wolves this season. Leicester have also only fielded 20, with the transformation in less than 12 months under Brendan Rodgers down to minor, subtle changes and his fantastic man-management. Two happy camps, refreshed and ready to go again after their break. Where else would I want to be on Valentine's night?! NB. These are two teams who'd be in the top four of any 'success story' table of the season so far (1 Liverpool 2 Sheffield United 3 Leicester 4 Wolves). Agreed?

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo on Adama Traore's injury: "Adama has a lot of people caring for him. It's a problem, but he's doing muscular work and taking care. He's OK." Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers on his side's mid-season break: "A lot of them went away to spend time with family and friends, to have a rest from football, and now they're ready to go. "There's no doubt it was definitely something that will benefit them; just to break the cycle was important, mentally as well as physically. The players had individual programmes while they were away, so they weren't escaping total physical exertion. We're all fresh ahead of this final third of the season."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

These teams have got top-four ambitions and this is a big game for both of them. It should be an entertaining one too, because they are both really good going forward and always create a lot of chances. Prediction: 2-1

Leicester City's Jamie Vardy It is his longest run without a top-flight goal since he went seven games between December 2016 and February 2017.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Wolves won 4-3 in both previous Premier League home games against the Foxes. Leicester's solitary victory in their past eight league visits to Wolves came in the Championship in December 2006.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have lost three of their past six league fixtures, as many defeats as in their first 19 top-flight fixtures this season. They have led for 305 ' in the Premier League this season, less than any other side, but have earned an unrivalled 18 points from a losing position. Their only previous victory in five Premier League matches played on a Friday night came against Manchester City in December. Wolves and Liverpool are the only two clubs to have scored in all of their Premier League home matches this campaign. They have scored a Premier League-high 20% of their 35 goals from outside the penalty area this season.

Leicester City A win on Friday would give Leicester 52 points, equalling their final tally for last season. Leicester have dropped eight points from winning positions in their last four league games - in contrast to six points lost in their prev ious 59 matches from the start of the 2018-19 campaign.

The Foxes have kept only one clean sheet in their last 10 Premier League matches, in a 3-0 win at Newcastle on New Year's Day.

They have scored 18 times in all competitions since their most recent goal by Jamie Vardy in a 3-1 Premier League defeat at Manchester City on 21 December.

Vardy's next Premier League appearance will be his 200th.

James Maddison is one of just three players along with Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish to have had 50 or more shots and created 50 or more chances for his team-mates in the Premier League this season.

Harvey Barnes has scored in three consecutive league games for the first time in his career. He had scored in just two of his first 39 appearances in the Premier League.

25 Saturday 1 February 2020 A Man Utd 17:30 Old Trafford  Sky D0-0

Meanwhile Adama Traore is PFA Fans Player of the month for January

https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc/2020/02/03/adama-traore-crowned-pfa-player-of-the-month-for-january/

25 Man Utd 0 WW 0

HT 0-0

Bruno Fernandes was unable to inspire Manchester United to victory on his debut as the £47m new arrival had to settle for a goalless draw against Wolves at Old Trafford. In a game of few chances, Fernandes did force a couple of routine saves from fellow countryman Rui Patricio, who also almost dropped another into his own net as he inexplicably fumbled his fellow Portuguese's tame shot round the post. The nearest United came to scoring was in the final minute of stoppage time when substitute Diogo Dalot headed Aaron Wan-Bissaka's cross narrowly wide, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men have now taken just four points from five games. Wolves worked hard but, despite introducing their debutant, Daniel Podence, near the end, also lacked a killer touch in front of goal. Nuno Espirito Santo's men have now won once in six games since their memorable comeback triumph against Manchester City on 27 December and, with 13 games of the campaign remaining, are, like United, six points off a Champions League place and behind Sheffield United.

The issues facing Man Utd in winter break 'I think someone's moved the goal posts' - Solskjaer on Man Utd finishing While it could not be described as an explosive debut, Fernandes did enough to indicate he will improve United as an offensive threat.  The former Sporting Lisbon man was eager to get on the ball, took the initiative at set-pieces and was not afraid to shoot. His first effort drifted wide as he shot from the angle. His second, from a central position, turned out to be the hosts' only first-half shot on target, which went straight at Patricio.  Almost more noticeable was the ugly stuff. A hoofed clearance from the edge of United's six-yard box brought chants of 'Bruno, Bruno' from the Stretford End behind him.  Then a thunderous challenge on fellow countryman Joao Moutinho eventually brought a cursory check to see if the Wolves midfielder was OK as he lay on the ground receiving treatment.  Another free-kick and the routine shot Patricio almost made a mess of were Fernandes' second-half highlights, although he will not be able to raise the whole underperforming team on his own.  

Familiar foes = This was the third meeting between these sides in the space of 29 days and their sixth encounter in less than a year. As the previous five had resulted in a couple of 2-1 victories for Wolves, a 1-0 triumph for United and two draws, it was perhaps no surprise the latest encounter should be equally tight. The visitors did have chances, with Raul Jimenez forcing an excellent second-half save from United keeper David de Gea and Romain Saiss heading over when he was well placed to do much better 11 minutes from time. Podence had a shot on the turn blocked near the end, although Wolves' marathon season appears to have caught up with them and they, more than most, will be thankful for the two-week break that lies ahead. Munich remembered -Sixty-two years ago on Thursday, United suffered the biggest tragedy in their history when eight players were among the 23 passengers who died when the team plane crashed in Munich following a refuelling stop on the way back from a European Cup tie in Belgrade. Two hours before kick-off on Saturday, fans from both sides gathered for the annual ceremony under the Munich memorial outside the stadium.  Just before the teams emerged from the tunnel, United's Munich anthem, Flowers of Manchester, was played and as the teams emerged a massive banner proclaiming "We'll Never Die" was dragged across the Stretford End. After 58 minutes, applause rang round the ground in honour of the victims.  Sir Bobby Charlton was the only survivor of the crash present at the game, although Jimmy Murphy, son of manager Sir Matt Busby's assistant Jimmy, was also at Old Trafford.  No protest There had been calls for a walkout by United fans after 68 minutes.  As it turned out, a handful of supporters left at the allotted time but it was hardly noticeable amid a capacity crowd. Far more conspicuous was the absence of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.

Wolves fans sang "There's only one Ed Woodward" at one point, although there was no repeat of the singing from United fans which has attracted such controversy in recent games.  

'I am happy' Nuno 'happy' with spirited Wolves performance Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: "I think it was a good game, an intense game. I think first half was good. There was a second-half spell United dominated and created a lot of problems. We had our moments. I am happy. The boys worked very hard and it was tough.  I think in the first half our idea was clear to control the middle of the pitch and we had a lot of counter attacks. It was good but it was a balanced game."

Man of the match - Aaron Wan-Bissaka (Man Utd) In a game of few chances, Wan Bissaka's pace was a threat and he was defensively sound

What next?

Wolves' next game is against Leicester at Molineux on Friday, 14 February (20:00 GMT). United travel to Chelsea on Monday, 17 February (20:00).

Goal-shy United - the stats

Manchester United have failed to score in three consecutive league games for the first time since October 2016.

United failed to score in back-to-back home league games for the first time since March 2014.

Wolves are without a win in their past 12 away games against United in all competitions (D3 L9), and have not led for a single minute in any of those games since a 1-0 win in February 1980.  

Wolves are the first team to keep a Premier League clean sheet away against both Manchester clubs in a season since Chelsea in 2013-14.

This was Wolves' first 0-0 draw in the Premier League since the opening weekend against Leicester, while it was just their third in total in 63 Premier League games under Nuno Espirito Santo.

Bruno Fernandes had more shots (5), more shots on target (3) and made more passes (88) than any other United player .

Eight Portuguese players featured, making Portugal only the third nation outside the UK to have at least eight players appear in a Premier League match, after France and Spain.

Line-ups

Man Utd

1de Gea 29Wan-Bissaka 2Lindelöf booked79' 5Maguire 23Shaw booked84' 15Pereira sub Greenwoodat 72' 17Fred 8Mata sub Lingardat 88' 18Bruno Fernandes booked 55' 21James sub Dalotat 88' 9Martial Substitutes 4Jones 14Lingard 20Dalot 22Romero 26Greenwood 44Chong 53Williams

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 15Boly 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves booked 57' 28João Moutinho booked 71' 19Castro Otto 37Traoré sub Castelo Podenceat 76' 9Jiménez sub Dendonckerat 90+1' 18Jota sub Netoat 70' Substitutes 6Cavaco Jordão 7Neto 10Castelo Podence 17Gibbs-White 21Ruddy 32Dendoncker 49Kilman

Referee: Paul Tierney Attendance: 73,363

Match Stats FT

         Man Utd Wolves

Possession 64%   36%

Shots      16    15

Shots on Tgt 5    4

Corners     4     6

Fouls      14    15

Match ends, Manchester United 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

Full Time  90'+5' Second Half ends, Manchester United 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

90'+4' Attempt missed. Diogo Dalot (MU) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Aaron Wan-Bissaka with a cross. 90'+3' Attempt blocked. Daniel Podence (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by  Pedro Neto.  90'+1' Sub, (WW) Leander Dendoncker replaces Raúl Jiménez.   88' Attempt missed. Victor Lindelöf (MU) header from the centre of the box misses to the right following a corner.  88' Sub, (MU) Diogo Dalot replaces Daniel James. 88' Sub, (MU) Jesse Lingard replaces Juan Mata. 87' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Romain Saïss. 87' Attempt missed. Harry Maguire (MU) right footed shot from the right side of the six yard box misses to the left following a set piece situation.  87' Attempt blocked. Victor Lindelöf (MU) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Fred with a cross. 86' Luke Shaw (MU) wins a free kick on the left wing. 86' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 85' Offside, (WW) Daniel Podence tries a through ball, but Raúl Jiménez is caught offside. 85' Attempt blocked. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 85' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Harry Maguire. 85' Attempt blocked. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the six yard box is blocked. Assisted by Daniel Podence with a cross. Booking 84' Luke Shaw (MU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 84' Foul by Luke Shaw (MU). 84' Daniel Podence (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 81' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. 80' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Pedro Neto. 79' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. Booking 79' Victor Lindelöf (MU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 79' Foul by Victor Lindelöf (MU). 79' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 78' Attempt saved. Mason Greenwood (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Fred. 76' Sub, (WW) Daniel Podence replaces Adama Traoré because of an injury. 74' Attempt missed. Mason Greenwood (MU) right footed shot from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Luke Shaw with a cross. 73' Attempt missed. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. 72' Foul by Fred (MU). 72' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 72' Sub, (MU) Mason Greenwood replaces Andreas Pereira. 72' Attempt saved. Andreas Pereira (MU) right footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Booking 71' João Moutinho (WW) is shown the yellow card for hand ball. 71' Hand ball by João Moutinho (WW). 70' Sub, (WW) Pedro Neto replaces Diogo Jota. 69' Corner, (WW) Conceded by David de Gea. 69' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 68' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 68' Attempt saved. Bruno Fernandes (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Harry Maguire. 67' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 66' Attempt blocked. Fred (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Luke Shaw. 65' Foul by Anthony Martial (MU). 65' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 63' Foul by Fred (MU). 63' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 60' Attempt missed. Juan Mata (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. 58' Attempt saved. Bruno Fernandes (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top left corner. Booking 57' Rúben Neves (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 57' Juan Mata (MU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 57' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). Booking 55' Bruno Fernandes (MU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 55' Foul by Bruno Fernandes (MU). 55' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 50' Bruno Fernandes (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 50' Foul by Jonny (WW). 50' Harry Maguire (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 50' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 49' Bruno Fernandes (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 49' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 48' Anthony Martial (MU) wins a free kick on the left wing. 48' Dangerous play by Willy Boly (WW).

Second Half

Second Half begins Manchester United 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0

Match Stats HT

         Man Utd Wolves

Possession 63%   37%

Shots       5     7

Shots on Tgt 1    2

Corners     1     3

Fouls       8     8

Half Time 45'+2' First Half ends, Manchester United 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

45'+2' Foul by Fred (MU). 45'+2' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 45'+1' Foul by Victor Lindelöf (MU). 45'+1' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 42' Foul by Aaron Wan-Bissaka (MU). 42' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half.  41' Foul by Luke Shaw (MU). 41' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 40' Harry Maguire (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 40' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 40' Attempt blocked. Bruno Fernandes (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Anthony Martial. 40' Attempt saved. Bruno Fernandes (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. 35' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 34' Aaron Wan-Bissaka (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 34' Foul by Jonny (WW). 33' Attempt missed. Bruno Fernandes (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Victor Lindelöf with a headed pass. 31' Anthony Martial (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 31' Foul by Conor Coady (WW). 30' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high from a direct free kick. 29' Foul by Andreas Pereira (MU). 29' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 28' Anthony Martial (MU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 28' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 25' Attempt missed. Harry Maguire (MU) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. 20' Anthony Martial (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 20' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 20' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) header from the left side of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 19' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Bruno Fernandes. 19' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Fred. 18' Attempt missed. Andreas Pereira (MU) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. 17' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Willy Boly. 13' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. 11' Juan Mata (MU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 11' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 10' Anthony Martial (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 10' Foul by Willy Boly (WW). 10' Daniel James (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 10'  Foul by Matt Doherty (WW). 8' Foul by Luke Shaw (MU). 8' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick in the  defensive half. 6' Attempt saved. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 5' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is too high following a corner. 4' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Victor Lindelöf. 4' Attempt blocked. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 3' Foul by Andreas Pereira (MU). 3' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 1' Foul by Andreas Pereira (MU). 1' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

Kick Off First Half begins.

TEAM NEWS

Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic serves a one-game ban, while Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Axel Tuanzebe remain injured.  New signing Bruno Fernandes, who has joined from Sporting Lisbon for an initial £46.6m, is fully fit and could make his debut.  

Daniel Podence may be involved for Wolves following the winger's £16.6m move from Olympiakos. Wing-back Ruben Vinagre remains sidelined by a hamstring problem. Forward Diogo Jota has fully recovered from a calf injury, while fit-again defender Willy Boly, who was on the bench against Liverpool, is ready to start if called upon.  

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@bbcjohnmurray: What a week it has been for Manchester United: a 6-0 away win, a second victory inside two months at the Etihad Stadium, and they've completed one of the most expensive transfer deals in the club's history.  However they were knocked out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday by their local rivals, the week was scarred by the shocking attack on the home of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, and there remains the possibility during this match of a walk-out by supporters disaffected with the Glazer ownership. It does, though, promise to be a very good contest, with the three previous meetings this season all closely-contested affairs.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Bruno Fernandes: "We've followed him for years but he has grown gradually during that period as well. More and more mature, more and more assured performances. He's a great leader of his team and, even with all the speculation that has been around him - probably every club in Europe linked with him, he's stayed focused and played some fantastic football for Sporting. It tells everything how professional he is and when you get to see him and meet him he's a fantastic human being."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

I have been impressed by Wolves whenever I have seen them, including their last game, which ended in a narrow defeat by Liverpool. They have easily given Liverpool their toughest test in any of their league games this season, and I think they will have too much for United. Prediction: 1-2

David de Gea is set to become the third Spaniard to play 300 Premier League games

He will follow in the footsteps of David Silva (also 300 appearances) and Cesc Fabregas (350)

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head - United's last home defeat by Wolves was a 1-0 top-flight loss in 1980, when Mel Eves scored the only goal. They have won nine of the subsequent 11 meetings, and not trailed for a single minute. Manchester United have lost just two of 11 league games this season against teams in the top half of the table prior to the latest round of fixtures, compared to six defeats in 13 matches versus clubs in the bottom half. They could lose three successive Premier League games without scoring for just the second time - it also happened between April and May 2015. The Reds have won 11 and lost 12 of their 32 league matches since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer became permanent manager, both scoring and conceding 43 goals. Manchester United's record of 34 points after 24 games is their worst total at this stage of a season since 1989-90, when they had 25 points.

Wolverhampton Wanderers could win consecutive away matches in the top flight for the first time since 2011. Defeat would be their 100th in the Premier League. They have kept just one clean sheet in their last 16 league fixtures. Wolves have only led for 305 minutes this season, the worst record in the division. They have conceded the opening goal in a league-high 17 matches, including each of their past eight. However, they have won 18 points from losing positions in 2019-20, six more than any other side. Raul Jimenez has been directly involved in 20 goals in his last 22 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and assisting eight.

24 Tuesday 21 January 2020 H Liverpool 19:45 Molineux L1-2

24 Wolves 1 Jiménez (51') Liverpool 2 Henderson (8'), Firmino (84')

HT 0-1

Liverpool's march to the Premier League title continued as Roberto Firmino's late winner at Wolverhampton Wanderers gave them the victory that extends their lead at the top to 16 points with a game in hand.  Wolves can consider themselves unfortunate to be the victims of Liverpool's 22nd win in 23 league games after making life as uncomfortable as anyone has for Jurgen Klopp's side this season before Firmino ensured Liverpool took another significant step towards their first title in 30 years. Reds captain Jordan Henderson headed them in front from Trent Alexander-Arnold's corner after eight minutes but Wolves drew level six minutes after the break when Raul Jimenez glanced in Adama Traore's cross. It was the first goal Liverpool - who lost Sadio Mane to a muscle injury in the first half - had conceded in the league for more than 12 hours and it required important saves from goalkeeper Alisson to keep out Traore and Jimenez as Wolves pressed. Liverpool, as ever, carried a huge threat and Firmino drilled home the winner with six minutes left - although substitute Diogo Jota then wasted a glorious chance to give Wolves a point in stoppage time. The Reds, who have won their past 14 league games, are the third team to go 40 games unbeaten in the Premier League.

Wolves 1-2 Liverpool: Jurgen Klopp savours Firmino's 'magic moment' as Reds edge Wolves

Liverpool were arguably put under more pressure here at a vibrant Molineux than at any time in the Premier League this season - but the champions-elect did what champions do and found a way to get the job done. After Wolves equalised, and with the dangerous Traore moving through the gears, there was the possibility that Liverpool could lose their first league game in more than a year. This, however, is a team that has forgotten how to draw never mind lose and even though it came against the run of play, it was no great surprise when Firmino made the decisive late contribution. And at the heart of it all was captain Henderson, unsung for so long but now in the best form of his career. Henderson delivered a collector's item with that header from a corner but it was his more customary attributes that helped his team through periods of suffering in the second half, although he also delivered the crucial pass for Firmino's winner. He was constantly available and always urging his team-mates to greater efforts. He has grown in stature, along with Liverpool, in these last two seasons and is now the heartbeat of this outstanding team. His influence in increasingly recognised and he was the driving force as Liverpool ground out a win in such a difficult environment.

Wolves are here to stay

Wolves have nothing to be disappointed about - Nuno - Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo and his players understandably cut dejected figures at the final whistle, denied so late on as they pushed to become only the second team after Manchester United to take points off Liverpool this season. When that disappointment subsides, they can look back with pride on a performance that produced further evidence of what has been rebuilt at this famous old club. Wolves were organised, played without fear, and in Jimenez and Traore possess a huge threat to back up their many qualities elsewhere. Traore's power and pace gave Andrew Robertson a very uncomfortable night while Jimenez has developed into a striker of the highest class.  It is all played out in Molineux's atmospheric arena, where the Wolves fans are revelling in what is being produced - and so they should. Wolves can now regard themselves rightfully as a force in the Premier League. They are entertaining and superbly coached. This is a team that is here to stay in the upper reaches.

Man of the match - Jordan Henderson scored and assisted in the same Premier League match for the first time since April against Southampton (BT gave it to Adama Traore)

'The boys are human' - manager reaction - Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp to BBC Sport: "We changed the system two or three times, we calmed it down. We had incredible chances in the first half and then at the end it was a magic moment from Bobby. The boys are human. It was a little bit up and down. We had discussion on the pitch, there was stuff to improve but set-pieces can bring us back in the game, a good bit of skill can bring us back in the game. Wolves were really strong but it's clear we could settle again. You just have to find a way to win and have someone who makes the perfect decision and that was Bobby again."

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo to BBC Sport: "It was a good game. We played well. There is nothing to be disappointed about. Getting the momentum was important. We defended well, we were well organised. This is what we want. We want to compete and keep on growing. We had in the last moment of the game [the chance to equalise]. It's about creating. Things will come naturally. I'm happy when we perform well. We faced a fantastic team. This is the standards we want."

Most points after 23 games ever - match stats Liverpool have amassed 67 points from a possible 69 this season - five more than any side in English top-flight history have after 23 games.

Raul Jimenez's goal for Wolves ended a run of 725 minutes without conceding a Premier League goal for Liverpool since Richarlison scored for Everton at Anfield exactly 50 days ago.

Jimenez is the third Premier League player to net 20 or more goals in all competitions this season, after Sergio Aguero (21) and Raheem Sterling (20). Wolves duo Adama Traore and Jimenez have combined for eight Premier League goals this season, more than any other partnership in the competition. Wolves have lost four consecutive home league games against Liverpool for the very first time. Liverpool are the first club to win three top-flight games on a Thursday in the same season since Leicester City in 1933-34. Wolves have conceded the first goal in 17 of their 24 Premier League games this season, including each of their last eight in a row. Jordan Henderson has scored more than once in the same season for Liverpool for the first time since 2015-16. Five of his last six goals for the Reds have come away from home.

Since the start of last season, Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold has assisted 22 Premier League goals, at least five more than any other player, with 10 of those coming from dead balls, also a league-high.

Roberto Firmino has scored six goals in his last eight games for Liverpool, as many as he had in his previous 32. All 10 of his goals this season have come away from Anfield.

What's next?  Liverpool play three times before Wolves' next game. The Reds visit Shrewsbury in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday (17:00 GMT), and go to West Ham next Wednesday (19:45) in their Premier League game in hand.

Klopp's side then host Southampton on Saturday, 1 February (15:00), with Wolves visiting European rivals Manchester United at 17:30.

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves 28João MoutinhoS sub Gibbs-Whiteat 87' 19Castro Otto 7NetoS sub Jotaat 77'

37Traoré 9Jiménez Substitutes 15Boly 17Gibbs-White 18Jota 21Ruddy 33Giles 49Kilman 56Ashley-Seal

Liverpool

1Alisson 66Alexander-Arnold 12Gomez 4van Dijk 26RobertsonBooked at 55' 15Oxlade-ChamberlainS sub Fabinhoat 70' 14Henderson 5Wijnaldum 11SalahS sub Origiat 85' 9Firmino 10ManéS sub Minaminoat 33' Substitutes 3Fabinho 13Adrián 18Minamino 27Origi 32Matip 48Jones 76Williams

Referee: Michael Oliver Attendance: 31,746

 

FT Match Stats

        Wolves Liverpool

Possession 47% 53%

Shots      10   13

Shots on Tgt 3   6

Corners     2    4

Fouls       6   11

Match ends, (WW) 1, Liverpool 2.

Full Time 90'+5' Second Half ends, (WW) 1, Liverpool 2.

90'+2' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from very close range is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 90' Roberto Firmino (LFC) wins a free kick on the left wing.  90' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 87' Foul by Fabinho (LFC). 87' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 87'  sub,  (WW). Morgan Gibbs-White replaces João Moutinho. 85'  sub,  (LFC) Divock Origi replaces Mohamed Salah. Goal! 84' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Liverpool 2. Roberto Firmino (LFC) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the top left corner. Assisted by Jordan Henderson. 83' Foul by Takumi Minamino (LFC).  83' Rui Patrício (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half.  82' Corner, (LFC) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 82' Attempt saved. Roberto Firmino (LFC) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 81' Alisson (LFC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 81' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 81' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) header from the left side of the six yard box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. 80' Foul by Joseph Gomez (LFC). 80' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 78' Offside, (WW). Leander Dendoncker tries a through ball, but Jonny is caught offside. 77'  sub,  (WW). Diogo Jota replaces Pedro Neto. 76' Foul by Takumi Minamino (LFC). 76' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 75' Corner, (LFC) Conceded by Romain Saïss. 74' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. Assisted by Romain Saïss with a headed pass following a fast break. 72' Attempt blocked. Roberto Firmino (LFC) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Andrew Robertson with a cross. 72' Virgil van Dijk (LFC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 72' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 71' Foul by Roberto Firmino (LFC). 71' Rúben Neves (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 70' sub,  (LFC) Fabinho replaces Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. 70' Attempt missed. Mohamed Salah (LFC) left footed shot from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Jordan Henderson. 68' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from a difficult angle on the right is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a through ball. 65' Attempt saved. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 60' Attempt saved. Roberto Firmino (LFC) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 60' Attempt blocked. Takumi Minamino (LFC) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Mohamed Salah. 59' Hand ball by Adama Traoré (WW). 66' Offside, (WW). João Moutinho tries a through ball, but Romain Saïss is caught offside. Booking 55' Andrew Robertson (LFC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 55' Foul by Andrew Robertson (LFC). 55' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. Goal!

51' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Liverpool 1. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross.

51' Attempt saved. Mohamed Salah (LFC) right footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 48' Attempt blocked. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 47' Corner, (LFC) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 47' Attempt saved. Mohamed Salah (LFC) left footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Liverpool 1.

HT Match Stats

 

        Wolves Liverpool

Possession 43% 57%

Shots       3    5

Shots on Tgt 0   1

Corners     2    1

Fouls       2   11

Half Time

45'+3'

First Half ends, (WW) 0, Liverpool 1.

45'+2' Attempt blocked. Mohamed Salah (LFC) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Roberto Firmino with a headed pass. 43' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. 43' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Romain Saïss. 39' Foul by Joseph Gomez (LFC). 39' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 38' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box misses to the left. 36' Foul by Jordan Henderson (LFC). 36' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 35' Hand ball by Pedro Neto (WW).  33'  sub,  (LFC) Takumi Minamino replaces Sadio Mané because of an injury. 19' Attempt blocked. Mohamed Salah (LFC) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Roberto Firmino. 18' Attempt blocked. Mohamed Salah (LFC) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Sadio Mané with a cross. 13' Foul by Roberto Firmino (LFC). 13' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 12' Foul by Jordan Henderson (LFC). 12' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 11' Attempt missed. Matt Doherty (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Rúben Neves with a cross following a  corner. 10' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Joseph Gomez. 9' VAR Decision: Goal Liverpool - Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-1 Liverpool (Jordan Henderson). Goal! 8' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Liverpool 1. Jordan Henderson (LFC) header from the centre of the box to the top right corner. Assisted by Trent Alexander-Arnold with a cross following a corner.Goal confirmed following VAR Review. 7' Corner, (LFC) Conceded by Romain Saïss. 7' Attempt blocked. Trent Alexander-Arnold (LFC) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 5' Mohamed Salah (LFC) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 5' Foul by Conor Coady (WW). 4' Foul by Trent Alexander-Arnold (LFC). 4' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. Kick Off First Half begins

TEAM NEWS

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo will again be without Ruben Vinagre due to his hamstring problem.  Diogo Jota and Willy Boly could both be involved after leg and ankle injuries respectively.

Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren returned to full training this week having last featured against Red Bull Salzburg on 10 December. However the trio of Naby Keita, James Milner and Xherdan Shaqiri all remain out.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@Wilsonfooty: The two busiest top-flight teams in England meet at Molineux in what should be a really enjoyable encounter. This will be Wolves' 40th match of the season and Liverpool's 37th. It's easy to forget that, amid the summer toil of the Europa League qualifying rounds, Wolves took only four points from their first six league games of the season. They have been superb ever since, and could well bridge the five-point gap currently separating them from fourth place. Make no mistake, Liverpool's 13-match winning run in the Premier League will be sorely tested. But Liverpool are Liverpool - and they generally find a way.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo: "They're very good and do things very well. It's a very good, fantastic team. Liverpool is a huge club. Good team. What we'll do is prepare ourselves well and play the game. Our fans will be behind us, a fantastic atmosphere, so we have to enjoy the game. We have to compete. That is the word - compete. When you compete, you don't give up. Every ball is important."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp: "Wolves are not only this year, but last year, really difficult to play. They play a similar system to other teams. It depends a little bit how they set up - three or five at the back. But they do it differently, Coady has a different role, they make the pitch really big and ask you for a lot of footwork. You have to run a lot.  That's normal and good, it's their way to play. For us, there are solutions for that but not without working a lot. You cannot play on a 50 or 60 per cent basis against Wolves, then you have absolutely no chance. That's the challenge for that game."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Everything about Wolves is impressive - their head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, their style of play and their threat going forward. They are a very skilful outfit. Do I think they are going to be the team to end Liverpool's long unbeaten run? Not quite, because Wolves are not brilliant at home, but this is still the Reds' most difficult game for a long time - and I am going for a draw here. Prediction: 1-1

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head - Wolves have won just one of the 11 Premier League meetings and have lost the last six, scoring just once in those games.

The Reds haven't lost away against Wolves in league competition since August 1981. The only three players to score a Premier League goal for Wolves against Liverpool are Kenny Miller, Stephen Ward and Steven Fletcher. Miller's was the only one scored at Molineux. Wolverhampton Wanderers have earned 18 points from losing positions in the Premier League this season, seven more than any other team.

They have led for just 305 minutes in the top flight this campaign, the least amount of any side. In contrast, Liverpool have led for the most: 1,160 minutes.  Since the beginning of last season, only Liverpool and Manchester City have managed more points against established top-six opposition than Wolves, who have taken 24. Nuno Espirito Santo's side are unbeaten in their past seven home evening kick-offs in the Premier League (7pm or later), winning five and drawing two. Wolves have scored 68% of their league goals after half-time since the start of last season, the highest proportion of any current top-flight side. They have conceded the first goal in a league-high 16 games this season, including each of the last seven.

Liverpool have taken 91 points from the past 93 available in the Premier League. A win or draw on Thursday would mean Liverpool become only the fifth team in the history of the English Football League to go 40 or more league games undefeated, after Nottingham Forest (42, 1977-78), Arsenal (49, 2003-04), Chelsea (40, 2004-05) and Huddersfield Town (43, 2011). They have kept a clean sheet in all seven league fixtures since Joe Gomez returned to the starting line-up on 7 December. The Reds had kept two clean sheets in their opening 15 league matches of the campaign. The Reds could equal their club top-flight record of eight successive clean sheets, set from December 1922 to March 1923 and matched from October to December 2005. They have won each of their last eight evening kick-offs in the Premier League (7pm or later), scoring 31 goals in these games and conceding just six.

23 Saturday 18 January 2020 A Southampton 15:00 St. Mary's W2-3

23 Saints 2 Bednarek (15'), Long (35') Wolves 3 Neto (53'), Jiménez (65' pen, 76')

HT 2-0  pix WWLSC & Sam Bagnall

Mexican striker Raul Jimenez scored twice as Wolves magnificently came from 2-0 down to win at in-form Southampton.

The Saints looked set for their sixth victory in seven games when Jan Bednarek hooked in and Shane Long headed home for his first of the season. However, the momentum shifted after the break. Portuguese teenager Pedro Neto, exceptional for Wolves so far this season, reduced the deficit after controlling Adama Traore's delivery from the right. Jimenez slotted home from the spot to bring the scores level after Jonny had been sandwiched by Jack Stephens and Cedric Soares. Referee Darren England, making his Premier League debut, pointed for a corner before his decision was overturned by VAR. And with 14 minutes left the fightback was complete when Jimenez stroked in after more good work from Traore.

A popular post-match question to Nuno Espirito Santo might be, "what did you say to them at half-time?"  Wolves were relatively abject in that opening period. Neither Jimenez, Neto nor Traore made many in-roads into the Southampton area. Some might have thought that this long season for Wolves, which started back at the end of July, was beginning to take its toll on the players - after all, they had experienced three defeats and two draws in the previous five games. But in Nuno they have one of the best motivators in this league. The team also has a precocious talent in Neto. The 19-year-old, who appears destined for greater achievements, set Wolves on their way when he brought down Traore's ball brilliantly before striking past Alex McCarthy. The home crowd at St Mary's then fell almost silent as VAR overturned England's initial 'no penalty' decision before Jimenez slotted home. The forward, at the forefront of all that has been good for the Midlands side, then capped off a great day for the visitors when he converted Traore's cross.

Saints brought back to earth - Shane Long scored his first goal for the Saints since 27 April v Bournemouth All good things come to an end, and this ended with a thump to the face for Ralph Hasenhuttl. But if he erases the woeful second-half capitulation from his mind and focuses on the first half then there are positives. The first being Long. The Austrian boss was recently glowing about the 32-year-old, highlighting how his workrate and effervescent attitude in attack have aided both strike-partner Danny Ings and the side in recent weeks.  He would have had a smile as wide as anybody's when Long finally ended a drought going back to April with a stopping header from Cedric Soares' cross. As for Bednarek, he scored his first since April 2018. James Ward-Prowse delivered a free-kick from the right and the Polish centre-back hooked home from 12 yards. That run of wins prior to Saturday moved the Saints into mid-table - it is important they rediscover the form that took them there.

Man of the match - Adama Traore - A tough call considering Raul Jimenez scored twice, but Traore set up two of Wolves' goals and deserves the nod  

'I said a lot of things at half-time' - reaction Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl: "As everybody sees, we had a good first half and a not-so-good second half. The opponent showed how you can turn the table with a few lucky moments, and I think we had a chance to score the third goal, when we were a little bit unlucky with the Long header on to the post. Congratulations to Wolves - they showed what a strong mentality they have, to turn such a game, and we must learn from this lesson. We did a good job in the last weeks, but if we don't carry on defending as we did, we can immediately concede goals. That was not the way we wanted to do it in the second half."

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo, when asked what he said to his side at half-time: "I said a lot of things. They did the job. We realised the first half was not good. I'm very proud of the players - even proud of the first half. In the tempo theirs was better than ours.  In the second half, making the goal then anything can change."

Wolves' 'bouncebackability' - stats

Since the start of last season, Southampton have dropped 42 points from leading positions in the Premier League, 13 more than any other side. Wolves have picked up 18 points from losing positions in the Premier League this season, seven more than any other side. Since the start of last season, Wolves have seen 68% of their Premier League goals scored in the second-half (55/81), the highest proportion of any current top-flight side. Wolves have conceded the first goal in a league-high 16 different Premier League games this season, including each of the last seven in a row.  Bednarek netted just his second goal for Southampton in 61 appearances in all competitions and his first for the club since April 2018 (v Chelsea). Long netted his 54th Premier League goal, becoming the joint-third-highest scoring Republic of Ireland player in the Premier League (Robbie Keane 126, Niall Quinn 59, Damien Duff 54).

Neto has scored two goals in his last three Premier League appearances for Wolves after failing to find the back of the net in any of his 13 before that.

What's next?

Wolves are at home to Liverpool on Thursday (20:00 GMT) and Southampton are at Crystal Palace on Tuesday (19:30 GMT).

Southampton

1McCarthy 2Cédric Soares 5Stephens 35Bednarek booked 57' 21Bertrand 17Armstrong sub Djenepoat 71' 16Ward-Prowse booked 29' 23Højbjerg 22Redmond sub Boufalat 78' 7Long sub Adamsat 71' 9Ings Substitutes 4Vestergaard 10Adams 12Djenepo 14Romeu 19Boufal 20Obafemi 28Gunn

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker  16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 28João Moutinho 8Neves booked 88' 19Castro Otto 7Neto sub Kilmanat 86' 9Jiménez 37Traoré Substitutes 6Cavaco Jordao 17Gibbs-White 21Ruddy 33Giles 49Kilman 56Ashley-Seal 59Buur

Referee: Darren England Attendance: 31,152

FT Southampton Wolves

Possession 53%  47%

Shots      11    8

Shots on Tgt 5   4

Corners     1    3

Fouls      13   12

Match ends, Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3.

Full Time 90'+7' Second Half ends, Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3.

90'+5' Attempt missed. Sofiane Boufal (Saints) left footed shot from the centre of the box is too high following a corner. 90'+5' Corner, (Saints) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker.  90'+4' Foul by Moussa Djenepo (Saints). 90'+4' Leander Dendoncker (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+2' Attempt missed. Jack Stephens (Saints) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by James Ward-Prowse with a cross. 90' Cédric Soares (Saints) wins a free kick on the right wing. 90' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). Booking 88' Rúben Neves (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 88' Sofiane Boufal (Saints) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 88' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 86' Sub, (WW) Maximilian Kilman replaces Pedro Neto. 84' Ryan Bertrand (Saints) wins a free kick on the left wing. 84' Foul by Matt Doherty (WW). 79' Offside, (Saints) Jan Bednarek tries a through ball, but Che Adams is caught offside.  78' Sub, (Saints) Sofiane Boufal replaces Nathan Redmond. 77' VAR Decision: Goal Wolverhampton Wanderers - Southampton 2-3 Wolverhampton Wanderers (Raúl Jiménez). Goal!

76' Goal! Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Adama Traoré.Goal confirmed following VAR Review.

73' Rúben Neves (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 73' Foul by Che Adams (Saints). 73' Attempt saved. Moussa Djenepo (Saints) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. 72' Foul by Jonny (WW). 72' Moussa Djenepo (Saints) wins a free kick on the right wing. 71' Offside, (WW) Rui Patrício tries a through ball, but Raúl Jiménez is caught offside. 71' Sub, (Saints) Moussa Djenepo replaces Stuart Armstrong. 71' Sub, (Saints) Che Adams replaces Shane Long. 68' Attempt missed. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the left. 67' Nathan Redmond (Saints) hits the bar with a right footed shot from outside the box. Assisted by Ryan Bertrand with a headed pass. Goal!

65' Goal! Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2. Raúl Jiménez (WW) converts the penalty with a right footed shot to the bottom right corner.

63' VAR Decision: Penalty Wolverhampton Wanderers. 62' Penalty Wolverhampton Wanderers. Jonny draws a foul in the penalty area. 62' Penalty conceded by Jack Stephens (Saints) after a foul in the penalty area.

61' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW).  61' Shane Long (Saints) wins a free kick on the right wing.  59' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 59' Pierre-Emile Højbjerg (Saints) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 58' Offside, (WW) João Moutinho tries a through ball, but Romain Saïss is caught offside. Booking 57' Jan Bednarek (Saints) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 57' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 57' Foul by Jan Bednarek (Saints). 55' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW).  55' Ryan Bertrand (Saints) wins a free kick on the left wing. 54' VAR Decision: Goal Wolverhampton Wanderers - Southampton 2-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers (Pedro Neto).

Goal!

53' Goal! Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Pedro Neto (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross.Goal confirmed following VAR Review.

52' Shane Long (Saints) hits the right post with a header from the centre of the box. Assisted by Nathan Redmond with a cross. 51' Hand ball by Pedro Neto (WW). 50' Offside, (Saints) Danny Ings tries a through ball, but Shane Long is caught offside. 50' Attempt blocked. Danny Ings (Saints) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Ryan Bertrand with a cross. 49' Pierre-Emile Højbjerg (Saints) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 49' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW).

Second Half

Second Half begins Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

Paul Jones interviewed at Half Time  

HT Southampton Wolves

Possession 49%  51%

Shots        5   4

Shots on Tgt 4   1

Corners      0   3

Fouls        8   3

Half Time

45'+2' First Half ends, Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

43' Attempt missed. Shane Long (Saints) header from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Cédric Soares with a cross. 40' Foul by Shane Long (Saints). 40' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Goal! 35' Goal! Southampton 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0. Shane Long (Saints) header from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Cédric Soares with a cross. 34' Foul by Nathan Redmond (Saints). 34' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 33' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from very close range misses to the right. Assisted by Pedro Neto with a cross. 31' Attempt saved. Stuart Armstrong (Saints) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by James Ward-Prowse. Booking 29' James Ward-Prowse (Saints) is shown the yellow card. 28' Foul by James Ward-Prowse (Saints). 28' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 27' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. 26' Foul by James Ward-Prowse (Saints). 26' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 25' Foul by Cédric Soares (Saints). 25' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 25' Foul by Jan Bednarek (Saints).  25' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 24' Attempt saved. Cédric Soares (Saints) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Nathan Redmond with a cross. 23' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 21' Foul by Stuart Armstrong (Saints). 21' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 18' Hand ball by Matt Doherty (WW). Goal! 15' Goal! Southampton 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0. Jan Bednarek (Saints) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the top right corner following a set piece situation. 14' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 14' Pierre-Emile Højbjerg (Saints) wins a free kick on the right wing. 12' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Cédric Soares. 12' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Jonny. 8' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 8' Cédric Soares (Saints) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 7' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 7' Foul by Ryan Bertrand (Saints). 3' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Jack Stephens. 2' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Cédric Soares. 1' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 1' Foul by James Ward-Prowse (Saints). Kick Off

First Half begins.

TEAM NEWS

Injury-hit Wolves will be without Ruben Vinagre, who suffered a hamstring injury in the midweek FA Cup defeat. This has led to left-sided player Ryan Giles being recalled from loan at Shrewsbury, and the teenager is likely to be on the bench.  

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has no fresh injury worries.  The only absentee is full-back Yan Valery, who has been suffering from a virus but is expected to rejoin training at the end of the month.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@Mark_Scott_: Southampton are now looking up rather than down the table following their fine run of form, with the Saints currently closer to European qualification than the relegation zone.

Danny Ings has been a major reason behind their resurgence, with his superb scoring run understandably leading to clamour for an England recall.

If any team could have done without an FA Cup replay in midweek, it was Wolves, with this already their 39th game of the season, which is more than any other Premier League side has played.

It looks as though that might be starting to catch up with them after some tired performances of late, when they've looked especially jaded in attack.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl on Wolves: "You have to praise this team, because they do a fantastic job. They have good quality in attack, and also defending they don't concede a lot of goals. I think they have only lost five Premier League games so far, and that shows a lot.All the opponents are strong, and we are feeling also strong at the moment, and this is important for us."

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo: "We must realise that everyone knows how we play, and teams are trying to find new things.  We have to raise our standards to sustain it and take advantage of the things we have. We try new solutions. There are two ways to improve, change - which we will never do - so it's about the building process."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Southampton's recent results show you the value of sticking with your manager because Ralph Hasenhuttl could easily have gone after they lost 9-0 at home to Leicester in October.  

Wolves are one of the better sides in the division but even they have not been on a great run since the end of the year and, right now, you would have to make Saints favourites.

Prediction: 2-0

Danny Ings has scored 10 goals in his last 10 Premier League starts

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Southampton have won both times they have previously hosted Wolves in the Premier League.  Wolves have lost their past five top-flight visits to Southampton, a run stretching back to 1980.

Southampton could win four league matches in a row for the first time since May 2016. Since losing 9-0 to Leicester in October, Saints have conceded just 14 goals in 12 league games. Only Liverpool and Manchester City have won more points over their past 10 Premier League matches than Southampton's tally of 20. Southampton could win their ninth Premier League fixture of the season, equalling their total for the whole of 2018-19. Saints have earned six fewer points at home than they have in the same number of matches away this season, also scoring five fewer goals. They have kept just one clean sheet in their 11 home league matches this season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers - Wolves are winless in three league games and have lost their last two away fixtures in the division. They have scored 22 second-half goals in this season's top flight - only Leicester City and Manchester City have scored more. Nuno Espirito Santo's side have conceded the first goal in an unrivalled 15 league games this season, including the last six in a row. However, they have recovered a league-high 15 points from losing positions. Wolves have kept only two clean sheets in their last 26 Premier League away matches. None of Wolves' Premier League goals this season (excluding own goals) have been scored by an English player.

24 Wednesday 15 January 2020 A Manchester United 19:45 Old Trafford  L1-0

FAC3R Man U 1 Mata (67')  WW 0

HT 0-0

Juan Mata's superb second-half goal sent Manchester United into the FA Cup fourth round as they beat Wolves. (terrible mix up by defenders after Doc gave the ball away in the MU box)  The Spanish midfielder chipped over keeper John Ruddy to settle the third-round replay after being put through on goal by Anthony Martial.

Wolves had an early Pedro Neto strike ruled out by the video assistant referee for a handball in the build-up. But it was a deserved win for the hosts, who had the better chances in a tight game at Old Trafford. Manchester United will next travel to either Watford or Tranmere - whose third-round replay at Prenton Park on Tuesday was postponed because of heavy rain.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side did not manage a shot on target in the goalless first game between the two sides at Molineux on 4 January but were much more threatening in this match. An excellent save by Ruddy prevented Mata from opening the scoring in the first half, while Daniel James was also denied by the Wolves keeper. After a high-tempo start, the game settled down - but Mata, 31, produced the one moment of quality to seal victory, rolling back the years with a clever finish.

Man Utd get job done but at a potential cost It is a tough period for many clubs in the Premier League with games in multiple competitions coming thick and fast. With his side facing a tough trip to league leaders Liverpool on Sunday, Solskjaer may have been forgiven for making numerous changes for this tie. But the FA Cup and Europa League arguably represent Manchester United's most realistic routes to trophies this season and Solskjaer underlined how seriously he is taking this competition by naming a strong line-up on Wednesday.

There were just three changes from the side that beat Norwich 4-0 in the Premier League last Saturday, as Sergio Romero was named in goal, while James and Mason Greenwood also started.  Wolves, too, went strong with their line-up, with Ruddy their only change and the two sides, cancelled each other for large periods.  Eager to get the job done and wrap up the game inside 90 minutes, Solskjaer sent on top scorer Marcus Rashford in the 64th minute to add bite to his attack and, three minutes later, United were ahead.  But the gamble to involve Rashford may prove costly; the striker pulled up with an injury and had to be replaced by Jesse Lingard just 16 minutes after coming on.  After the game, Solskjaer admitted the decision to play Rashford was one that backfired. 'You can't celebrate' - Coady furious with disallowed goal  VAR has certainly had its critics this season - but for the second time in five days, it was new regulations relating to handball that caused controversy as the video official stepped in to rule out a goal. The law regarding handball, updated before the start of this season, states any goal scored or created with the use of the hand or arm will be disallowed "even if it is accidental".  West Ham and Declan Rice fell victim to it last Friday when the midfielder's injury-time equaliser against Sheffield United was ruled out because the ball had touched his arm in the build-up. This time, the handball rule was applied early on at Old Trafford when VAR spotted that the ball had brushed Raul Jimenez's hand just before Neto fired home early on. It was a let-off for Manchester United and spared Fred's blushes with the strike having come as a result of a wild pass by the midfielder that deflected off a team-mate and into Jimenez's path. It also seemed to set the tone for the rest of the game as Manchester United grew in confidence after a strong start by Wolves, who struggled to get Adama Traore involved as much as they would have hoped. After the game, Wolves captain Conor Coady said: "It's constant, all we are talking about is VAR. It's ridiculous, it's stupid.  You can't celebrate. Raul Jimenez didn't even know he had handballed it. We have to get used to it. All of it is terrible for me. It's not for me, it's not for a lot of players. But people higher up in the game are happy with it."

Man of the match - Brandon Williams (MU)  (JOHN RUDDY)Brandon Williams appears to be getting better with every game and this was another assured and mature performance by the young full-back

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: "I think you can see it was two teams towards the end that were tired. It was end to end and an open game - sometimes that doesn't suit us.  "We're delighted to beat Wolves finally. Juan Mata is different class. He's got the skill, composure and even pace."

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: "It was a good game of football, an even game. Both teams had chances. We didn't defend the goal well but we reacted well and were in the game. A proper game, I am disappointed to go out because it is frustrating when you perform well and go out." On the disallowed goal: "That's VAR, you cannot do anything about it. We are celebrating non-goals - it doesn't make sense."

Another early exit for Wolves - the stats

Manchester United have won each of their past six home matches in the FA Cup without conceding a single goal in this run.

Wolves have been eliminated at the third-round stage or earlier in seven of their past nine FA Cup campaigns, this after having made it to at least the fourth round in each of their nine seasons in a row before this. Manchester United have won nine of their past 10 home matches against Wolves in all competitions, keeping six clean sheets in those games. Juan Mata has been directly involved in three goals in his past two games for Manchester United (one goal, two assists), as many as he was in his first 20 appearances of the 2019-20 season in all competitions before this. Since his FA Cup debut in January 2016, Manchester United forward Anthony Martial has eight assists in the competition. Only Peterborough's Marcus Maddison (11) has more in this time. Marcus Rashford was the first Manchester United player to both come on as a substitute before then being substituted himself in the same FA Cup match since Alan Smith against Liverpool in February 2006

What next? Manchester United travel to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday, 19 January (16:30 GMT) while Wolves are at Southampton the day before (15:00).

Man Utd

22Romero 29Wan-Bissaka 2Lindelöf 5Maguire booked 74' 53Williams 17Fred booked 37'31Matic 8Mata 26Greenwood sub Pereiraat 64' 21James sub Rashfordat 64' sub Lingardat 80' 9Martial Substitutes 4Jones 10Rashford 13Grant 14Lingard 15Pereira 20Dalot 44Chong

Wolves

21Ruddy 32Dendoncker booked 84' 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto sub Vinagreat 75' 7Neto booked 59' sub Gibbs-Whiteat 71' 9Jiménez 37Traoré sub Buurat 88' Substitutes 5Bennett 11Rui Patrício 17Gibbs-White 29Vinagre 49Kilman 56Ashley-Seal 59Buur

Referee: Kevin Friend Attendance: 67,025

       Man Utd Wolves

Possession 57%  43%

Shots      11    7

Shots on Tgt 6   2

Corners     6    5

Fouls       5   10

Match ends, Manchester United 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

Full Time 90'+5' Second Half ends, Manchester United 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

90'+4' Attempt saved. Andreas Pereira (MU) right footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Anthony Martial.  90'+3' Offside, (MU) Jesse Lingard tries a through ball, but Anthony Martial is caught offside. 90'+2' Harry Maguire (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+2' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 90'+1' Offside, (WW) João Moutinho tries a through ball, but Oskar Buur is caught offside. 90'+1' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 90' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Victor Lindelöf. 89' Offside, (WW) Raúl Jiménez tries a through ball, but Morgan Gibbs-White is caught offside. 88' Sub, (WW) Oskar Buur replaces Adama Traoré because of an injury. 85' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Rúben Neves. Booking 84' Leander Dendoncker (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 84' Aaron Wan-Bissaka (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 84' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 82' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by João Moutinho following a corner. 82' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Victor Lindelöf. 80' Anthony Martial (MU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 80' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 80' Sub, (MU) Jesse Lingard replaces Marcus Rashford because of an injury. 75'  Sub, (WW) Rúben Vinagre replaces Jonny. Booking 74' Harry Maguire (MU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 74' Foul by Harry Maguire (MU). 74' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 71' Sub, (WW) Morgan Gibbs-White replaces Pedro Neto. Goal! 67' Goal! Manchester United 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0. Juan Mata (MU) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Anthony Martial with a through ball. 64' Sub, (MU) Andreas Pereira replaces Mason Greenwood. 64' Sub, (MU) Marcus Rashford replaces Daniel James. 63' Anthony Martial (MU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 63' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). Booking 59' Pedro Neto (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 59' Brandon Williams (MU) wins a free kick on the left wing. 59' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 56' Foul by Fred (MU). 56' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 55' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Jonny. 54' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by João Moutinho.  52' Attempt missed. Daniel James (MU) left footed shot from the left side of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Brandon Williams. 51' Fred (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 51' Foul by Jonny (WW). 50' Attempt saved. Juan Mata (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Anthony Martial. 47' Offside, (MU) Brandon Williams tries a through ball, but Daniel James is caught offside.

Second Half begins Manchester United 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

Half Time

45'+2' First Half ends, Manchester United 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

45'+1' Hand ball by João Moutinho (WW). 45' Offside, (MU) Mason Greenwood tries a through ball, but Juan Mata is caught offside. 43' Daniel James (MU) wins a free kick on the left wing. 43' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 43' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 42' Attempt saved. Daniel James (MU) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Fred with a through ball. 40' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Pedro Neto. 40' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Romain Saïss. Booking 37' Fred (MU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 37' Foul by Fred (MU). 37' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 34' Attempt saved. Anthony Martial (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Nemanja Matic. 32' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross.  30' Offside, (WW) Rúben Neves tries a through ball, but Matt Doherty is caught offside. 29' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Victor Lindelöf. 28' Attempt saved. Juan Mata (MU) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Anthony  Martial. 23' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Nemanja Matic. 22' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. 21' Attempt missed. Fred (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is too high following a corner. 21' Attempt blocked. Fred (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Mason Greenwood. 21' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 14' Attempt missed. Anthony Martial (MU) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Mason Greenwood. 11' VAR Decision: No Goal Manchester United 0-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers. 10' GOAL OVERTURNED BY VAR: Pedro Neto (WW) scores but the goal is ruled out after a VAR review. 10' Hand ball by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 9' Foul by Nemanja Matic (MU). 9' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 9' Attempt blocked. Anthony Martial (MU) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Juan Mata. 8' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. 6' Brandon Williams (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 6' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 5' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Pedro Neto. 3' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Matt Doherty. 1' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 1'  Foul by Fred (MU). Kick Off First Half begins.

Manchester United centre-half Eric Bailly is "very close" to a return but is not expected to play in the FA Cup third-round replay against Wolves. Bailly, 25, has had two knee injuries that have kept him out of competitive action since April, but United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he "might be back for the weekend" against Liverpool. Ashley Young, linked with a move to Inter Milan, will also not play. Wolves are without Diogo Jota, Bruno Jordao and Wily Boly on Wednesday. Forward Jota has a dead leg, midfielder Jordao is out because of an ankle injury, while central defender Boly is still recovering from a fractured ankle sustained in a training session in October. The winners will play away at either Premier League Watford or League One Tranmere. The Hornets were 3-0 ahead in the first match, but Tranmere scored three second-half goals to force a replay, which was scheduled to take place on Tuesday but was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch. This game is Wolves' 38th of the season after they started their campaign in the Europa League qualifiers in July and boss Nuno Espirito Santo has been pleased with how his squad have handled the extra workload. "It's about the way they prepare themselves on a daily basis with the way they recover and compete, credit to all the players," he said. "It's the most important game, the next one is always the most important."

Matt Doherty an effort from Matt Doherty was one of only two shots on target in the goalless draw on 4 January United, like Wolves, are also in the last 32 of the Europa League, and will be playing for the 14th time in 46 days. "It's relentless," said United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "We've still got five or six games before the winter break, 18 games in less than 60 days which is physically and mentally demanding, we have to energise them. This tournament is one we all dream about winning when we're young. I loved my time in the finals and lifting the trophy, so we want to go through."

The original match at Molineux ended 0-0 as United failed to have a shot on target - the first time that had happened since January 2015, although both sides hit the woodwork in the second half.

Pre-match stats

Manchester United are without a win in five games against Wolves in all competitions (drawn three, lost two) since a 5-0 victory in the Premier League in March 2012.

Wolves are without a win in their last 10 competitive away visits to face Manchester United at Old Trafford (drawn two, lost eight) since a 1-0 win in February 1980.

Manchester United have been taken to an FA Cup third round replay for the first time since 2012-13, when they eliminated West Ham at Old Trafford.

Wolves have lost nine of their 10 previous FA Cup away third round replays, winning the other versus Oldham in 2007.

Wolves' Diogo Jota has found the back of the net in two of his last three appearances against Manchester United, although both goals came at Molineux.

22 Saturday 11 January 2020 H Newcastle 15:00 Molineux D1-1

22 Wolves 1 Dendoncker (14') Newcastle Utd 1 Almirón (7')

HT 1-1

Steve Bruce says his Newcastle side overcame the worst injury crisis he has seen in 40 years to draw at Wolves and end their three-game Premier League losing run.  Miguel Almiron's third goal in six games ensured a share of the spoils for Newcastle, who remain 13th in the table.  But with Paul Dummett and Dwight Gayle suffering first-half injuries, it was the manner of his side's performance that Bruce admired most. "With the problems we've got we deserved something. I don't think there's a club out there which has 12 or 13 players missing," Bruce said. "They ran a million miles and their resilience was there for everyone to see. We lacked a bit of quality in the top end of the pitch but I couldn't fault their effort and endeavour. I thought it was going to be a repeat of when we lost four players in 12 minutes against Leicester. Joe [Joelinton] had the courage to carry on [with a groin problem] when we were down to the bare bones. It's ridiculous, I've never known anything like it in 40 years."While Wolves move up to seventh in the table, they produced an unusually flat performance at Molineux in their 37th game of the campaign. Leander Dendoncker's equaliser from Joao Moutinho's corner should have laid the platform for them to take advantage of Newcastle's problems. But instead they struggled to convert possession into meaningful scoring chances. "I'm not frustrated. I think we didn't play well enough to win," said head coach Nuno Espirito Santo. "We didn't move the ball fast enough. Fast circulation of the ball allows you to open spaces, but that was one of the issues today."

Wolves lack cutting edge - While Wolves largely had control of the ball, this was the fourth consecutive game in all competitions in which Nuno's side have struggled to find a cutting edge. Since their victory over Manchester City on 27 December, they have failed to muster more than four shots on target in any game.  Wolves have also now conceded first in an unrivalled 15 league games this season, including the past six in a row. Nuno calls for Wolves to be more clinical in front of goal And while they huffed and puffed, particularly in the closing stages, a victory against Newcastle would have flattered the hosts, despite their recovery from another sluggish start. Adama Traore was the sole bright spark, supplying all of Wolves' best moments in open play. According to media reports, Traore was sounded out over pursuing a career in the NFL while at Barcelona.  And at times he appeared like an American Football running back, barging through, evading and accelerating clear of Newcastle defenders.  His right-wing cross provided Mexican forward Raul Jimenez with a first-half opportunity to equal Steven Fletcher's club record of 22 Premier League goals and he supplied Pedro Neto with a similar headed chance 14 minutes from the end, but Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka saved superbly from both players.

Newcastle's walking wounded show their spirit At his press briefing on Friday, Bruce provided updates on the fitness of 14 players. And while six of those he namechecked were fit to play in the Midlands, early injuries to Dummett and Gayle undermined Newcastle's bright start to the game. Dummett, returning after missing four matches, went off injured in the 13th minute and although Newcastle reorganised, Wolves equalised with a goal that will surely perplex Bruce. Moutinho's corner cleared several players before dropping into Dendoncker's path. After that, however, the Magpies manager could have no such complaints and was clearly satisfied with his team's endeavour, fight and football intelligence at the final whistle. While Dubravka twice rescued Newcastle, there were also solid performances from the likes of Ciaran Clark and Sean and Matty Longstaff.

Matty Longatsff, at 19 the younger of the two brothers, epitomised his team's approach in the closing stages, allowing Raul Jimenez to clatter into him to relieve pressure that had been building on the visitors.

Man of the match - Martin Dubravka (Newcastle) Dubravka made two crucial saves to ensure Newcastle claimed a point

Worldwide Wolves - the stats

Wolves have recovered 15 points from losing positions in the Premier League this season - more than any other side in the competition.

Seven of the 10 Premier League meetings between Wolves and Newcastle have finished level (one Wolves win, two Newcastle) - the joint-highest percentage of meetings ending in a draw (70%) of any Premier League fixture to be played on 10 or more occasions (level with Stoke City v Wigan Athletic) Wolves have conceded the first goal in 15 of their 22 Premier League matches this season, at least two more than any other side in the division in 2019-20. Each of Wolves' last 50 Premier League goals have been scored by non-English players (excluding own goals), only the sixth occasion of a side having 50+ consecutive non-English scorers in the competition, and the first since Stoke in December 2016 (59). Newcastle forward Almiron has scored in back-to-back games in all competitions for Newcastle; he had only scored in one of his first 30 appearances for the club before this. Almiron has scored with both of his past two shots on target in the Premier League; he hadn't scored with any of his first 15 attempts on target in the competition prior to this.

What's next?

Newcastle host Rochdale in their FA Cup third-round replay on Tuesday, 14 January (19:45 GMT). They turn their attention back to the Premier League on Saturday, 18 January when they face Chelsea (17:30 GMT).

Wolves travel to Manchester United for their FA Cup third-round replay on Wednesday, 15 January (19:45 GMT). They are next in action in the Premier League on Saturday, 18 January when they visit Southampton (15:00 GMT).

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto 37Traoré 9Jiménez 7Neto sub Vinagreat 85' Substitutes 5Bennett 17Gibbs-White 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 49Kilman 56Ashley-Seal 59Buur

Newcastle

1Dubravka 14Hayden 18Fernández 2Clark 3Dummett sub Lejeuneat 13' 15Willems 9Joelinton sub Carrollat 79' 36S Longstaff 43' Longstaff Booked at 87' 24Almirón Booked at 65' 12Gayle sub Atsuat 28' Booked at 67' Substitutes  7Carroll 11Ritchie 20Lejeune 26Darlow 30Atsu 49Watts 50Allan

Referee: Peter Bankes Attendance: 31,570

FT Stats Wolves Newcastle

Possession 65% 35%

Shots       9   5

Shots on Tgt 4  1

Corners     5   2

Fouls      13  12

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Newcastle United 1.

Full Time 90'+5' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Newcastle United 1.

90'+4' Conor Coady (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+4' Foul by Andy Carroll (NU). 90'+3' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+3' Foul by Christian Atsu (NU). 90'Corner, (WW). Conceded by Martin Dubravka. 89' Leander Dendoncker (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 89' Foul by Andy Carroll (NU). Booking 87'Matthew Longstaff (NU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.86' Rúben Vinagre (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 86' Foul by Matthew Longstaff (NU). 85' Sub, (WW). Rúben Vinagre replaces Pedro Neto. 84' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 84' Florian Lejeune (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 81' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 81' Matthew Longstaff (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 80' Offside, (NU). Jetro Willems tries a through ball, but Christian Atsu is caught offside. 79' Sub, (NU). Andy Carroll replaces Joelinton. 76' Attempt saved. Pedro Neto (WW) header from the left side of the six yard box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Leander Dendoncker. 75' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 75' Jetro Willems (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 70' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left following a corner. 70' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Sean Longstaff. Booking 67' Christian Atsu (NU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 67' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 67' Foul by Christian Atsu (NU). 67' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 67' Foul by Isaac Hayden (NU). 66' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 66' Matthew Longstaff (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Booking  55' Miguel Almirón (NU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 65' Conor Coady (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 65' Foul by Miguel Almirón (NU). 60' Foul by Matt Doherty (WW). 60' Joelinton (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 55' Corner, (NU). Conceded by Romain Saïss. 54' Attempt blocked. Sean Longstaff (NU) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Jetro Willems. 53' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 53' Matthew Longstaff (NU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 51' Corner, (NU). Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 49' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 49' Foul by Isaac Hayden (NU). 47' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Federico Fernández. 47' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. 47' Attempt blocked. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Newcastle United 1.

Half Time stats

        Wolves Newcastle

Possession 61% 39%

Shots       5   4

Shots on Tgt 2  1

Corners     2   0

Fouls       7   4

Half Time 45'+6' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Newcastle United 1.

45'+2' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a headed pass. 44' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by João Moutinho following a set piece situation. 44' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 44' Foul by Federico Fernández (NU). 42' Attempt blocked. Miguel Almirón (NU) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Sean Longstaff. 34' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 34' Matthew Longstaff (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 34' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from very close range is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. 31' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 31' Foul by Isaac Hayden (NU).  28' Sub, (NU). Christian Atsu replaces Dwight Gayle because of an injury. 27' Hand ball by Jonny (WW). 26' Attempt missed. Sean Longstaff (NU) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Jetro Willems. 25' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 25' Joelinton (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 24' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Dwight Gayle. 23' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 23' Foul by Joelinton (NU). 22' Leander Dendoncker (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 22' Foul by Miguel Almirón (NU). 22' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 22' Dwight Gayle (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 17' Foul by Jonny (WW). 17' Sean Longstaff (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 17' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 15' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 15' Isaac Hayden (NU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Goal!

14' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Newcastle United 1. Leander Dendoncker (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner following a corner.

13' VAR Decision: No Penalty Wolverhampton Wanderers. 13' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Ciaran Clark.  13' Sub, (NU). Florian Lejeune replaces Paul Dummett because of an injury. Goal! 7' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Newcastle United 1. Miguel Almirón (NU) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the top right corner. Assisted by Dwight Gayle. 6' Attempt missed. Miguel Almirón (NU) left footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Dwight Gayle. 1' Jetro Willems (NU) wins a free kick on the left wing. 1' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). Kick Off First Half begins.

TEAM NEWS

Wolves remain without Diogo Jota because of the dead leg he sustained against Watford on New Year's Day. Patrick Cutrone appears set to join Fiorentina, but Morgan Gibbs-White is finally available after a back problem.  Newcastle's injury problems are easing, with Ciaran Clark, Paul Dummett, Jetro Willems, Andy Carroll, Miguel Almiron and Dwight Gayle all fit again. However, Ki Sung-Yueng, Yoshi Muto and DeAndre Yedlin are all nursing knocks and will be assessed.  Wolves winger Cavaleiro makes permanent Fulham switch

 

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@ConorMcNamaraIE: With 12 Europa League games on top of their domestic matches, Wolves' gruelling schedule was bound to take its toll at some stage. Back-to-back league defeats against Liverpool and Watford - followed by last weekend's FA Cup draw with Manchester United - mean that Nuno Espirito Santo is now looking for a first win in four games.  Having appeared to turn a corner with three wins in four games from the start of December, Newcastle have now lost their past three Premier League matches.  On the plus side, Steve Bruce says "there's light at the end of the tunnel" concerning the Magpies' recent injury crisis.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo: "We need to bring in players and we will bring players. It needs time, needs proper decisions for us to bring players that can really help us and bring different characteristics to our squad. We have to evaluate what we have, the squad, what and how we want to proceed competing, and that has a final weight on the decisions you make."

Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce: "We've got to find that resilience again and we've got to stop making individual errors. That's cost us badly in the last couple of games, especially away. We'll have to defend well, catch them, and create something at the other end."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Newcastle are on a poor run of form and have got lots of injury problems to contend with. Wolves also suffered a couple of defeats over Christmas but I don't see any cause for concern - they have got so much quality in their squad. Prediction: 2-0

As a manager, Steve Bruce has had league wins over Wolves with six different clubs. He has earned victory with Huddersfield, Crystal Palace, Birmingham, Sunderland, Hull and Aston Villa.

MATCH FACTS Head-to-head Wolves have failed to win any of their past five home league matches against Newcastle (D2, L3). Six of the nine Premier League meetings have ended in a draw, including the reverse fixture earlier this season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers - could lose three consecutive league games for the first time this season, equalling their longest losing streak under Nuno Espirito Santo. They have kept just two clean sheets in their 10 league fixtures at Molineux in 2019-20. Nuno Espirito Santo's side have conceded the first goal in an unrivalled 14 league games this season, including the last five in a row.  None of Wolves' last 49 Premier League goals have been scored by an Englishman, excluding own goals. Raul Jimenez is one goal short of equalling Steven Fletcher's club record of 22 Premier League goals. Joao Moutinho has provided five Premier League assists since the start of November - a tally bettered only by Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Newcastle United could lose four consecutive league games for the first time since May 2018. The Magpies have led for just 342 minutes in the Premier League this season - only Wolves and Crystal Palace have spent less time in front. Newcastle are the only club not to have been awarded or conceded a Premier League penalty this season. Newcastle need one more goal to reach 500 away goals in the Premier League - they would be the ninth team to reach that mark. Andy Carroll has failed to score in 27 Premier League appearances, but he has provided assists for four of Newcastle's last six league goals.

FAC3 Saturday 4 January 2020 ko 17:31 Liveon BTSport 2020 FA Cup 3rd round Man Utd Molineux

FAC3 Wolves 0 Man Utd 0  replay probably Tuesday 14 Jan

Pix Sam Bagnall/Getty

Manchester United failed to have a shot on target in a domestic game for the first time since January 2015 as they played out a goalless FA Cup draw at Molineux.  With United having a two-legged EFL Cup semi-final against Manchester City this month, the Old Trafford replay will take up their only spare January midweek without a game. For Wolves, it adds to a marathon season that has already reached 36 games. In a largely disappointing rematch of last year's quarter-final, Marcus Rashford and Raul Jimenez both struck the woodwork in the second half.  Rashford came close a minute after his introduction as a second-half substitute, when his shot looped off Wolves skipper Conor Coady.  Jimenez's was all his own work as he raced down the byeline and then, completely lacking in support, surprised United keeper Sergio Romero by shooting from a virtually impossible angle, sending the ball skidding off the woodwork.

Wolves' long season stretching resources.  Wolves, whose season started in July, gave a debut to 21-year-old striker Benny Ashley-Seal. He became the 26th player to start for Wolves during this campaign. In truth, the young Londoner did not sparkle and appeared to complain of feeling ill before he was replaced by Jimenez at the break.  Wolves did create the best chance of the opening period, when a Pedro Neto corner was flicked on to Matt Doherty at the far post, only for Romero to make a fine reaction save.  Romero repelled Neto with his feet when the Portuguese teenager collected Adama Traore's pass and created a space for a shot on the edge of the area after half-time, by which point the visitors were still to have a shot on target. They did have a penalty claim for a foul on Brandon Williams by Leander Dendocker, although the video assistant referee confirmed on-field official Paul Tierney's decision not to award it  Juan Mata drifted a free-kick just wide and Rashford hit the bar when the ball looped up after Coady slid in to block 19 minutes from time, but Wolves keeper John Ruddy had still not made a save of note even then.

Matt Doherty's header was ruled out by VAR after the ball struck the defender's arm on its way in

United labour badly in attack - No-one could accuse the visitors of having an easy time of it in the FA Cup recently. Their past four games have all been away. Their opponents? Arsenal, Chelsea, Wolves and Wolves again. Molineux proved to be the end of their journey last season and for watching former manager Sir Alex Ferguson it must have felt a long time ago that United came to this venue and won 3-0 in a fourth-round tie in 2006.   Ferguson's team that day included Wayne Rooney and Ruud van Nistelrooy, two of the greatest forwards in the club's history.  Current boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer simply does not have the same class in his squad and on a day when Rashford started on the bench and Anthony Martial was missing through illness, United laboured badly in attack.  Typical of a first half in which the visitors failed to have a single shot on target was the moment when Harry Maguire won the ball with a thunderous tackle on Traore, only for Andreas Pereira to pick up possession on the halfway line then, rather than drive into space, plod forward a few strides, turn square with a slow pass and lose any momentum.  Fixture congestion compounded The replay will be at Old Trafford between the next two rounds of Premier League fixtures and comes after both clubs - as with every other English professional club - had four matches to play over the festive period.  For United, who like Wolves have reached the last 32 of the Europa League, it means that by the time these side play again in the league on 1 February, they will have played a minimum 18 games in 63 days - and even more if they do eventually reach the fourth round.

Man of the match - Raul Jimenez (Wolves) Raul Jimenez, Wolverhampton Wanderers Produced the one moment of class in the game when his shot from a tight angle struck the frame of the goal Wolves stretch unbeaten run against United - the stats Manchester United failed to have a single shot on target in this match, the second time they've done so in all competitions this season (also vs AZ in the Europa League). Wolves are unbeaten in their past five matches against Manchester United in all competitions (W2 D3), their longest such streak against the Red Devils since a run of six between 1959-1962. United failed to score for the first time in 14 meetings with Wolves in all competitions, since losing 1-0 in a Premier League match in January 2004. Manchester United have been taken to an FA Cup third-round replay for the first time since 2012-13, when they eliminated West Ham at Old Trafford. Wolves' Roman Saiss picked up his 11th card in all competitions this season (10 yellow, 1 red), more than any other Premier League player.

'Moments of really good football' - what the managers said

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo, speaking to Match of the Day: "At times today we were at our best, especially in the second half. The first half was not so good. We were much better in the second half, created chances and had good combinations. There were moments of really good football." On his team's hectic schedule: "We must compete. We are always happy to face Manchester United. Whether you face them home or away, you always have to challenge yourself. This is what you want to become better - challenging yourself against the best teams. It's about having a team that can compete against any opponent."

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, speaking to Match of the Day: "I'm happier to be in the replay than going out - it's a tough place to come. They had chances - Sergio Romero made some great saves and we got off the hook with the header. Sergio has never let us down, he's kept so many clean sheets. He is a fantastic human being and a top professional. He's putting pressure on David de Gea and that's what we want. We want the best players in the world here.  It's a competition I love. It's a fair result that we are both still in the cup."

 

What next?

Wolves are next in action in the Premier League at home to Newcastle on Saturday, 11 January (15:00 GMT kick-off). Manchester United entertain Manchester City in the EFL Cup semi-final first leg on Tuesday, 7 January (20:00 GMT) before playing Norwich in the Premier League at Old Trafford next Saturday (15:00 GMT).

Wolves

21Ruddy 32Dendoncker 16Coady 49Kilman booked 72' 2Doherty 27Saïss booked 57' bookedJoão Moutinhoat 71' booked 90' 8Neves 29Vinagre sub Castro Ottoat 75' 37Traoré 56Ashley-Seal sub Jiménezat 45' 7Neto Substitutes 5Bennett 9Jiménez 11Rui Patrício 19Castro Otto 28João Moutinho 54Otasowie 59Buur

Man Utd

22Romero 18Young booked 86' 2Lindelöf 5Maguire 53Williams 15Pereira 31Matic 44Chong sub Dalotat 82' 8Mata sub Fredat 70' 21James sub Rashfordat 70' 26Greenwood Substitutes 4Jones 10Rashford 13Grant 17Fred 20Dalot 28Gomes 29Wan-Bissaka Referee:

Paul Tierney Attendance: 31,381

          Wolves Man Utd

Possession  49%  51%

Shots       12   12

Shots on Tgt 2    0

Corners      8    5

Fouls        9   11

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester United 0.

Full Time 90'+7' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester United 0.

90'+7' Foul by Fred (MU).  90'+7' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+5' Attempt blocked. Diogo Dalot (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Ashley Young. 90'+5' Attempt missed. Diogo Dalot (MU) right footed shot from a difficult angle on the right is high and wide to the right following a set piece situation. Booking 90'+4' João Moutinho (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 90'+4' Fred (MU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 90'+4' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 90'+2' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. 90' Brandon Williams (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 87' Ashley Young (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 87' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). Booking 86' Ashley Young (MU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 86' Foul by Ashley Young (MU). 86'  Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 84' Foul by Diogo Dalot (MU). 84' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 82' Attempt missed. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Jonny following a set piece  situation.  82' Sub, (MU) Diogo Dalot replaces Tahith Chong. 81' Foul by Ashley Young (MU). 81' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 81' Raúl Jiménez (WW) hits the right post with a right footed shot from a difficult angle on the right. 77' Attempt missed. Jonny (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box misses to the left. 77' VAR Decision: No Goal Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-0 Manchester United. 76' Hand ball by Matt Doherty (WW).  75' Sub, (WW) Jonny replaces Rúben Vinagre. Booking 72' Maximilian Kilman (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 72' Tahith Chong (MU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 72' Foul by Maximilian Kilman (WW). 72' Hand ball by Fred (MU). 71' Sub, (WW) João Moutinho replaces Romain Saïss. 70' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 70' Attempt blocked. Marcus Rashford (MU) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Mason Greenwood. 70' Sub, (MU) Marcus Rashford replaces Daniel James. 70' Sub, (MU) Fred replaces Juan Mata. 67' Attempt missed. Mason Greenwood (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Harry Maguire. 65' Ashley Young (MU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 65' Foul by Rúben Vinagre (WW). 64' Attempt missed. Rúben Vinagre (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is high and wide to the left. 63' Foul by Andreas Pereira (MU). 63' Maximilian Kilman (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 60' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Sergio Romero. 60' Foul by Tahith Chong (MU).  60' Conor Coady (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 59' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Tahith Chong. 58' Attempt missed. Juan Mata (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left from a direct free kick. Booking 57' Romain Saïss (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 57' Tahith Chong (MU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 57' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 51' Attempt saved. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 48' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Pedro Neto. 47' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Nemanja Matic.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester United 0.

45' Sub, (WW) Raúl Jiménez replaces Benny Ashley-Seal because of an injury.

Half Time 45'+1' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester United 0.

43' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Maximilian Kilman. 43' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Rúben Vinagre. 39' Attempt missed. Victor Lindelöf (MU) header from the left side of the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Juan Mata with a cross following a corner. 39' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Romain Saïss. 37' Attempt missed. Daniel James (MU) right footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Juan Mata. 35' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right.  Assisted by Matt Doherty following a corner. 34' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Daniel James. 31' VAR Decision: No Penalty Manchester United. 31' Foul by Daniel James (MU). 31' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 29' Attempt missed. Daniel James (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Tahith Chong. 26' Attempt missed. Andreas Pereira (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Nemanja Matic. 24' Attempt blocked. Mason Greenwood (MU) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Daniel James. 18' Foul by Tahith Chong (MU). 18' Conor Coady (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 15' Attempt blocked. Romain Saïss (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 15' Foul by Nemanja Matic (MU). 15' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 13' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Sergio Romero. 13' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the six yard box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Leander Dendoncker. 13' Attempt missed. Leander Dendoncker (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Pedro Neto  with a cross following a corner. 12' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Victor Lindelöf. 12' Attempt blocked. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the right side of the six yard box is blocked. Assisted by Pedro Neto with a cross. 12' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Brandon Williams. 9' Hand ball by Brandon Williams (MU). 9' Tahith Chong (MU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 9' Foul by Rúben Vinagre (WW). 7' Attempt missed. Mason Greenwood (MU) left footed shot from the left side of the box is high and wide to the left. 7' Attempt blocked. Andreas Pereira (MU) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Daniel James. 7' Corner, (MU) Conceded by Leander  Dendoncker. 6' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Harry Maguire. 4' Andreas Pereira (MU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 4' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 3' Offside, (WW) Maximilian Kilman tries a through ball, but Benny Ashley-Seal is caught offside. Kick Off

First Half begins.

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo is likely to make changes for Saturday's FA Cup tie against Manchester United.  Goalkeeper John Ruddy and defender Max Kilman are in contention to start, while midfielder Ruben Neves could also return for the hosts.  

Sergio Romero will start in goal for Manchester United. Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard were sent home from training on Friday with illness, while Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay are among those out injured.

MATCH FACTS

This is the 10th FA Cup match between Wolves and Man Utd - they last met in the quarter-final last season, with Wolves winning 2-1.

Wolves are unbeaten in their last four matches against Manchester United under Nuno Espirito Santo {W2 D2}. Wolves have won their last three home FA Cup matches in a row, last winning four consecutively between January 2003 and January 2004. Manchester United have been eliminated in the FA Cup third round in just one of the last nine seasons, losing to Swansea City in 2013-14 under David Moyes. Twenty six of the 27 teams to eliminate Manchester United from the FA Cup (including winning finals) have been in the top-flight that season - the exception was Leeds United in 2009-10, who were in League One

Lawro Premier League v Premier League

                              Gap Result Lawro

SATURDAY Wolves v Man Utd 2 x-x 2-1

I know Wolves were beaten by Watford on Wednesday but generally they have been excellent.  Manchester United are not great on the road and while people say they are inconsistent, I would just call them soft, mentally. They are not competitive enough, and they don't have enough strong characters in their side. It is not so much their results that are the problem, it is the fact that when they do get beaten, they are usually absolutely woeful. It is a fact of life in football that when the other team are playing well and you're not, you have to stop them. And United just cannot do that.

21 Wednesday 1 January 2020 A Watford 15:00 Vicarage Road BT Lost 2-1

 21 Watford Deulofeu (30'), Doucouré (49'), Kabasele (Dismissed at 71') Wolves 1 Neto (60')

HT 1-0

Very poor Wolves, treating match like a practice game, aided by poor refereeing decisions.  Even worse,, they let go of Gerard Deulofeu who hadn't scored until 2 November but now has four goals making him Watford's joint top goalscorer Abdoulaye Doucoure says he is "so happy" to have Nigel Pearson in charge and believes Watford will survive relegation after their revival continued with victory over Wolves. Goals from Gerard Deulofeu and Doucoure gave Watford a 2-0 lead before Pedro Neto reduced the deficit.

They hung on for a third win in five matches under Pearson after being reduced to 10 men for the final 19 minutes through Christian Kabasele's red card. Victory lifted Watford to a point from Premier League safety with Pearson's 10-point haul eclipsing the combined total of his predecessors Javi Gracia and Quique Sanchez Flores this season. "We are so happy to have Nigel Pearson come in," Doucoure told BT Sport after scoring on his 27th birthday. Everyone is pushing together, we are so proud of how we played. We deserved to win, we have had a fantastic week and we want to carry on and get out of the relegation zone." Asked if Watford would survive, he added: "Yes, of course. Not a lot of people believe in us but we will fight to stay in the Premier League, and we will do it."

Wolves, who had only lost twice in their previous 15 league games, pressed for an equaliser as Ben Foster saved Matt Doherty's header and Ruben Neves fired over in stoppage time. However, Pearson's team showed grit and determination to move one point behind 18th-placed Bournemouth and stay two from safety.

Watford 2-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers: Watford showed different way of winning - Pearson

Pearson leading Watford in right direction. When Pearson took over at Watford, his team looked doomed with nine points from 16 games and a six-point gap to safety. Now with three wins and a draw from their past five matches, it looks as though the Watford boss might be able to recreate a second great escape after he led Leicester City to survival at the end of the 2014-15 season. The Hornets are now far more positive in their play, helped by returning striker Troy Deeney, who has scored three goals in his past four games. And they look more solid in defence, shown in the latter stages of this game where they had to deal with Kabasele's dismissal for hauling down substitute Diogo Jota, which was deemed a yellow-card offence by referee Andrew Madley before it was upgraded to a red by the video assistant referee. Against Wolves, who remain seventh in the table, Deulofeu and Ismaila Sarr were outstanding as they continually caused the visitors problems. Deulofeu did not score his first goal this season until 2 November against Chelsea, but he is now Watford's joint top scorer, finding the bottom corner with a composed finish for his fourth of the campaign. The Spanish winger also set up Doucoure, whose shot took a deflection off Conor Coady and sailed into the top corner.  There was a collective desire and will to earn the win after the second half began to unravel, which will give Watford hope that they can remain in the top flight for a sixth season.

Substitute Diogo Jota was tugged back by Christian Kabasele as Wolves searched for an equaliser Tired Wolves struggle to take advantage

No Premier League team has played more than the 35 games Wolves have competed in this season, and at times during this encounter it showed. Even though Nuno Espirito Santo brought in four players who were rested from Sunday's trip to Anfield, including Adama Traore and top scorer Raul Jimenez, they did not overly trouble the hosts until the hour mark. Perhaps they were not worried by going behind given that they had previously conceded the first goal in 13 league games this season but had only lost four of those. However, they paid for missing a good early chance with Doherty thwarted by the impressive Ben Foster after he latched onto Coady's astute pass. Once Doucoure made it 2-0, their task seemed insurmountable, yet the deflected strike by Neto, who was a continuous outlet for them down the left, and the red card gave the visitors an unexpected fillip. Given Wolves' success this season, an equaliser looked likely as they piled on the pressure. But this is a new Watford side whose only defeat since Pearson took over was at Anfield. And the Hornets showed their jubilant fans the type of resilience that had become lost under previous managers Gracia and Sanchez Flores.

Man of the match - Gerard Deulofeu who scored his fourth of the season and set up Abdoulaye Doucoure for Watford's second. He was their main attacking outlet before he was substituted after Christian Kabasele's red card

Manager reaction - 'We put our bodies on the line' Watford boss Nigel Pearson told BBC Match of the Day: "We displayed a different kind of win today. We had to show a lot of commitment to dig in. It was a tough second half, going down to 10 men, Wolves are a decent side and had a lot of possession. But we were prepared to put our bodies on the line. What I've seen today is a group of players with incredible unity, they have an appetite to work hard to get out of the situation we are in." On Christian Kabasele's red card: "The players feel it was harsh, based on the type of contact and the position of team-mates, so we will have to look at it. I've not seen it yet. The important thing was to try and keep calm, we had to make changes and I felt the players dealt with it exceptionally well."

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: "The performance was not the best. We started slow and allowed Watford into the game. They had a couple of chances but no more than that. But we only reacted after the second goal. We didn't create enough to really get the draw and get what we wanted. We have a team with character but we didn't have that today. Let's work on it and try and improve for the next one. "We should improve, it makes a lot of difference when you take your chances as you can manage the game, especially when you have such a tight schedule."

Watford 2-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers: Wolves should have taken chances - Nuno

Pearson's home run - the best stats Watford have won back-to-back Premier League games for the first time since February 2019.

Gerard Deulofeu has scored three goals in all competitions against Wolves for Watford - he's only scored more against Cardiff City for the Hornets (four). Watford manager Nigel Pearson has won his past six home Premier League games, winning three with Leicester in May 2015 and his first three with Watford.

Wolves have lost three of their past five Premier League games (W2), as many as they'd lost in their previous 21 games combined.

Wolves winger Adama Traore completed 15 dribbles in this match, the most by a player in a league match in the top five European leagues since Karim Bellarabi completed 17 in a Bundesliga fixture for Bayer Leverkusen against Werder Bremen in February 2015.

Wolves' Pedro Neto became the first teenager to score for the club in the Premier League (19y 298d). oao Moutinho registered his 14th Premier League assist for Wolves, overtaking Matt Jarvis as the record assist holder for the club in the competition.

What next?

Watford host League One Tranmere Rovers in the FA Cup third round on Saturday (kick-off 15:01 GMT), Wolves host Manchester United in the same competition (kick-off 17:31 GMT), having beaten them in the quarter-finals last season.

Line-ups

Watford

26Foster booked 90' 4Dawson booked 21' 27Kabasele booked 71' 15Cathcart 21Femenía Sub Holebasat 60'  14Chalobah 29Capoue 23Sarr subPereyraat 90+2' 16Doucouré 7Deulofeu subMasinaat 73'  9Deeney booked 90' Substitutes 1Gomes 11Masina 18Gray 20Quina 22Success 25Holebas 37Pereyra

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 5Bennett subNevesat 54'  16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 32Dendoncker 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto subVinagreat 54'  37Traoré 9Jiménez 7Neto booked 26' subJotaat 66'  Substitutes 8Neves 10Cutrone 18Jota 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 49Kilman 54Otasowie

Referee: Andy Madley Attendance: 20,584

Match Stats

       Watford  Wolves

Possession 36%  64%

Shots       9   16

Shots on Tgt 3   4

Corners     4    7

Fouls      12    6

Match ends, (WFC) 2, (WW) 1.

Full Time 90'+7' Second Half ends, (WFC) 2, (WW) 1.

90'+7' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Booking 90'+6' Ben Foster (WFC) is shown the yellow card. 90'+4' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 90'+4' Foul by Abdoulaye Doucouré (WFC). Booking 90'+4' Troy Deeney (WFC) is shown the yellow card. 90'+4' Rúben Vinagre (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+4' Foul by Troy Deeney (WFC).  90'+3' Corner, (WFC). Conceded by Romain Saïss.  90'+2' Sub, (WFC). Roberto Pereyra replaces Ismaila Sarr. 90'+2' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 90'+2' Troy Deeney (WFC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 90'+1' Corner, (WFC). Conceded by Romain Saïss. 90' Corner, (WFC). Conceded by Conor Coady. 89' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 89' Ben Foster (WFC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 88' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Craig Dawson. 88' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. 83' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 83' Etienne Capoue (WFC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 82' Attempt missed. Rúben Vinagre (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 80' Attempt missed. Etienne Capoue (WFC) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right following a corner. 80' Corner, (WFC). Conceded by Conor Coady. 79' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 79' Foul by Troy Deeney (WFC). 77' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho. 77' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Adam Masina. 75' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) header from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Rúben Vinagre with a cross. 73'  Sub, (WFC). Adam Masina replaces Gerard Deulofeu. 72' Attempt blocked. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Dismissal 71' Christian Kabasele (WFC) is shown the red card. 70' VAR Decision: Card upgraded Christian Kabasele (WFC). 69' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 69' Foul by Christian Kabasele (WFC). 67' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 67' Foul by Craig Dawson (WFC). 66' Sub, (WW). Diogo Jota replaces Pedro Neto.  66' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 66' Etienne Capoue (WFC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 63' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Leander Dendoncker. 62' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Abdoulaye Doucouré. 62' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 62' Attempt blocked. Matt Doherty (WW) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Rúben Vinagre with a cross. 62' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Craig Dawson. 61' Rúben Vinagre (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 61' Foul by Troy Deeney (WFC). Goal!

60' Goal! Watford 2, (WW) 1. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from outside the box to the top right corner. Assisted by João Moutinho.

60' Sub, (WFC). José Holebas replaces Kiko Femenía because of an injury. 58' Attempt saved. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 55' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 55' Foul by Etienne Capoue (WFC). 54' Sub, (WW). Rúben Vinagre replaces Jonny. 54' Sub, (WW). Rúben Neves replaces Ryan Bennett. 52' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 52' Foul by Abdoulaye Doucouré (WFC). Goal! 49' Goal! Watford 2, (WW) 0. Abdoulaye Doucouré (WFC) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the top right corner. Assisted by Gerard Deulofeu. 48' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. 48' Attempt missed. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho. 47' Hand ball by Conor Coady (WW).

 

Second Half begins Watford 1, (WW) 0.

Half Time 45'+5' First Half ends, (WFC) 1, (WW) 0.

45'+3' Attempt missed. Ismaila Sarr (WFC) right footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Troy Deeney following a fast break. 42' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 42' Foul by Etienne Capoue (WFC). 40' Attempt missed. Gerard Deulofeu (WFC) right footed shot from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Troy Deeney with a headed pass. 36' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Ismaila Sarr. 34' Offside, (WFC). Craig Dawson tries a through ball, but Ismaila Sarr is caught offside. Goal! 30' Goal! Watford 1, (WW) 0. Gerard Deulofeu (WFC) right footed shot from the left side of the box to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Ismaila Sarr. 29' Attempt saved. Ismaila Sarr (WFC) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Gerard Deulofeu. 28' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Pedro Neto. Booking 26' Pedro Neto (WW) is shown the yellow card. 25' Pedro Neto (WW) has gone down, but the referee deems it simulation. Booking 21' Craig Dawson (WFC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 21' Foul by Craig Dawson (WFC). 21' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 20' Attempt missed. Nathaniel Chalobah (WFC) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Ismaila Sarr. 20' Attempt blocked. Gerard Deulofeu (WFC) right footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Abdoulaye Doucouré. 16' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Leander Dendoncker. 13' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Conor Coady with a through ball. 12' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Christian Kabasele. 11' Corner, (WW). Conceded by Christian Kabasele. 10' Foul by Abdoulaye Doucouré (WFC). 10' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 5' Foul by Etienne Capoue (WFC). 5' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 4' Attempt blocked. Nathaniel Chalobah (WFC) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Abdoulaye Doucouré. Kick Off First Half begins.

Lineups are announced and players are warming up.

20 Sunday 29 December 2019 A Liverpool 15:00 Anfield L1-0 to VAR

20 Liverpool 1 Mané (42') Wolves 0

HT 1-0 to VAR

Man of the match - Diogo Jota (Wolves)

Diogo Jota

Portuguese forward Jota was a threat all match and he could easily have equalised in the second half

Liverpool finish the year with a 13-point lead at the top of the Premier League table following victory over Wolves amidst more Video Assistant Referee controversy at Anfield.  Sadio Mane scored the winner in the first half, slotting it past keeper Rui Patricio after it bounced off Adam Lallana's shoulder in the box.(AFTER A VAN DYKE HANDBALL) There was a lengthy VAR review for handball from Lallana before referee Anthony Taylor eventually confirmed the goal. Wolves then had a goal disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside by Jonny after Pedro Neto had drilled his shot into the bottom left corner on the stroke of half-time. Liverpool had chances to extend their lead - Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino coming close either side of the break, but Wolves were also bright. Diogo Jota had two big chances in the second half - the first a shot from a tight angle in the box which flew wide of the right post, the second a festive gift from a Virgil van Dijk mistake which he hit straight at Liverpool keeper Alisson. Liverpool finish the year as resounding favourites to win their first league title in 30 years, while Wolves end 2019 in good form despite defeat at Anfield.

More VAR controversy...

There is not a weekend that goes by in the Premier League in which VAR controversy is not at the heart of it - and both decisions were marginal at Anfield. Wolves fans were clearly frustrated, greeting referee Anthony Taylor with a roar of boos on his re-entry to the pitch following the half-time break, and they sang of their disapproval of the VAR system as frustrations continued in the second half. Liverpool's opening goal appeared to strike the top of Lallana's shoulder, near his collar bone, rather than his arm, while Wolves' disallowed goal was because Jonny had a toe offside. On a weekend where Norwich striker Teemu Pukki and Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha were also victims of close offside calls, the talk - once again - will be of the use of VAR and not how Liverpool managed to grind out yet another win in the league.

Gary Lineker "Thoughts are with football at this difficult time".

The difference a decade makes It seems like it was only yesterday when Liverpool appointed Roy Hodgson as manager in 2010. Hodgson would go on to last just six months, having made eight signings - Milan Jovanovic, Joe Cole and Paul Konchesky among them - who all failed to impress at Liverpool. The Reds went on to finish sixth at the end of the season - 22 points behind champions Manchester United. They also lost to League Two side Northampton Town in the League Cup and did npt make it past the last 16 of the Europa League. Fast forward 10 years and Liverpool are sporting the Fifa Champions badge on their shirts as a one-off in the Premier League after winning the Club World Cup in Qatar earlier this month. Fans welcomed their players onto the pitch against Wolves with a rendition of "We are the champions... of the world". As reigning European champions, they already have the Premier League trophy well within their sights and it would take an almighty collapse for Liverpool to lose their position at the top of the table in the second half of the season.

Positives for Wolves despite the manner of defeat

Wolves drop to eighth place following the defeat at Anfield but they will be very happy at the halfway mark. A comeback victory over Manchester City and the 4-0 thrashing over Besiktas in the Europa League were big highlights in December but they gave the league leaders a run for their money on Sunday despite playing in their second fixture in 43 hours. Jota had chances to equalise in the second half as Wolves piled the pressure on and he was not alone. Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore, both introduced as second-half substitutes, failed to hit the target from good positions, while Ruben Vinagre thumped a strike over from close range in stoppage time. The positivity they showed throughout the game will have pleased boss Nuno Espirito Santo, who continues to work wonders with a small, but talented squad. Wolves' ultimate goal should be to secure European football for another season and they are on course to achieve that in the New Year.

Man of the match - Diogo Jota (Wolves)

Teams

Liverpool

1Alisson 66Alexander-Arnold 12Gomez 4van Dijk 26Robertson 14Henderson 5Wijnaldum sub by Milnerat 86' 20Lallana Booked at 45' sub by Keitaat 67' 9Firmino sub by Origiat 86' 10Mané 11Salah Substitutes 7Milner 8Keita 13Adrián 27Origi 48Jones 67Elliott 76Williams

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 5Bennett 16Coady 49Kilman 19Castro Otto 32Dendoncker sub by Traoréat 58' 8Neves sub by Saïssat 58' 28João Moutinho

29Vinagre 7Neto 18Jota sub by Jiménezat 72' Substitutes 2Doherty 9Jiménez 21Ruddy 27Saïss 37Traoré 54Otasowie 59Buur

Referee: Anthony Taylor

Full Time

  Liverpool Wolves

Possession 63%  37%

Shots      10    9

Shots on Tgt 3   2

Corners     5    5

Fouls       7    3

Va Dyke handball before the Lallana/Mane goal

Match ends, Liverpool 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

Full Time 90'+5' Second Half ends, Liverpool 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.90'+5' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Virgil van Dijk.  90'+5' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 90'+2' Attempt missed. Rúben Vinagre (Wolverhampton Wanderers) left footed shot from the left side of the box. 89' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (Wolverhampton Wanderers) left footed shot from outside the box. 88' Attempt missed. João Moutinho (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Pedro Neto with a headed pass. Substitution  86' Substitution, Liverpool. Divock Origi replaces Roberto Firmino. Substitution 86' Substitution, Liverpool. James Milner replaces Georginio Wijnaldum. 83' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Joseph Gomez. 83' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Romain Saïss. 82' Foul by Georginio Wijnaldum (Liverpool). 82' Raúl Jiménez (Wolverhampton Wanderers) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 72' Foul by Georginio Wijnaldum (Liverpool). 72' Adama Traoré (Wolverhampton Wanderers) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Substitution 72' Substitution, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Raúl Jiménez replaces Diogo Jota. 68' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (Wolverhampton Wanderers) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 67' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Alisson. 67' Attempt saved. Diogo Jota (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the top right corner. Substitution 67' Substitution, Liverpool. Naby Keita replaces Adam Lallana. 61' Attempt missed. Roberto Firmino (Liverpool) right footed shot from the centre of the box. Substitution 58' Substitution, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Adama Traoré replaces Leander Dendoncker. Substitution 58' Substitution, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Romain Saïss replaces Rúben Neves. 57' Attempt missed. Pedro Neto (Wolverhampton Wanderers) left footed shot from outside the box. 57' Offside, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Jonny tries a through ball, but Diogo Jota is caught offside. 56' Foul by Andrew Robertson (Liverpool). 56' Jonny (Wolverhampton Wanderers) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 54' Corner, Liverpool. Conceded by Conor Coady. 53' Corner, Liverpool. Conceded by Max Kilman. 53' Attempt blocked. Georginio Wijnaldum (Liverpool) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Trent Alexander-Arnold with a cross. 52' Corner, Liverpool. Conceded by Rúben Vinagre.  51' Hand ball by Leander Dendoncker (Wolverhampton Wanderers). 50' Joseph Gomez (Liverpool) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 50' Foul by Diogo Jota (Wolverhampton Wanderers). 47' Attempt saved. João Moutinho (Wolverhampton Wanderers) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal.Second Half Second Half begins Liverpool 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

Half Time

45'+6' First Half ends, Liverpool 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0

Half Time

      Liverpool Wolves

Possession 71%  29%

Shots       8    1

Shots on Tgt 3   0

Corners     2    3

Fouls       4    1

45'+6' First Half ends, Liverpool 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0. 45'+4' VAR Decision: No Goal Liverpool 1-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers. 45'+3' GOAL OVERTURNED BY VAR: Pedro Neto (Wolverhampton Wanderers) scores but the goal is ruled out after a VAR review. 45'+3' Offside, Wolverhampton Wanderers. João Moutinho tries a through ball, but Jonny is caught offside. 45'+2' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Adam Lallana. 45'+2' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Jordan Henderson. 45'+2' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Booking 45'+1' Adam Lallana (Liverpool) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 45' Foul by Adam Lallana (Liverpool). 45' Diogo Jota (Wolverhampton Wanderers) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 42' VAR Checking: Liverpool Goal (Sadio Mané). 42' Hand ball by Adam Lallana (Liverpool). 41' Joseph Gomez (Liverpool) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 41' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (Wolverhampton Wanderers). 32' Offside, Liverpool. Adam Lallana tries a through ball, but Roberto Firmino is caught offside. 31' Attempt missed. Roberto Firmino (Liverpool) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Andrew Robertson with a cross following a corner. 30' Corner, Liverpool. Conceded by Ryan Bennett. 30' Attempt blocked. Sadio Mané (Liverpool) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Jordan Henderson. 27' Offside, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Pedro Neto tries a through ball, but João Moutinho is caught offside. 25' Foul by Sadio Mané (Liverpool). 25' Pedro Neto (Wolverhampton Wanderers) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 21' Attempt saved. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the  goal. Assisted by Sadio Mané with a headed pass. 19' Attempt saved. Roberto Firmino (Liverpool) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted  by Mohamed Salah. 15' Attempt missed. Georginio Wijnaldum (Liverpool) right footed shot from the centre of the box is too high following a corner. 15' Corner, Liverpool. Conceded by Rúben Vinagre. 12' Offside, Liverpool. Adam Lallana tries a through ball, but Mohamed Salah is caught offside. 9' Hand ball by Adam Lallana (Liverpool). 8' Hand ball by Andrew Robertson (Liverpool). 7' Offside, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Leander Dendoncker tries a through ball, but Diogo Jota is caught offside. 6' Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Joseph Gomez. 6' Offside, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Diogo Jota tries a through ball, but Pedro Neto is caught offside. 4' Attempt missed. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) left footed shot from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Trent Alexander-Arnold. 2' Attempt blocked. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Mohamed Salah with a cross.

Kick Off - First Half begins.

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is expected to recover from a kick on the shin in time to face Wolves.  The Reds remain without injured quintet Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Fabinho, Dejan Lovren, Joel Matip and Rhian Brewster.  

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo is expected to make changes to his side, who came back to beat Manchester City on Friday night. Willy Boly and Morgan Gibbs-White remain long-term absentees.

'Liverpool confirm 30-year wait is coming to an end' Fans warned after objects thrown during Wolves win

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Wolves: "I really think the job Nuno is doing there is incredible with all the Europa League stress. I think at the beginning of the season they realised a little bit, 'Oh, that's different'. But now they are settled completely there, they are there again, Jimenez and Jota are scoring again. There is a lot of really good things there and that makes it really difficult to play against them, of course. But it should be difficult against us as well, that's the plan."

Liverpool have 52 points after 18 games - 313 PL teams have recorded less than that over an entire season

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head = Liverpool have lost just one of their 10 Premier League games against Wolves (W7, D2). The Reds have won the last five league encounters by an aggregate score of 12-1. Wolves have lost 15 of their last 17 top-flight matches at Anfield, failing to score in 10 of the past 14.

Liverpool - If they avoid defeat, this Liverpool team will record 50 unbeaten top-flight home matches - a feat only previously achieved by Chelsea (86 between 2004-2008) and Liverpool (63 between 1978-1980). Liverpool have won 16 straight home league games, scoring at least twice in each victory. They have won 26 of their last 27 Premier League matches, including 17 of 18 this season. Liverpool are unbeaten in 35 league fixtures (W30, D5). The Reds have won their final league game in each of the last five years since losing at Chelsea in 2013. Roberto Firmino has scored four goals in three matches in all competitions, having previously scored just four all season. Trent Alexander-Arnold has registered a league-high 20 assists since the start of last season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Wolves are unbeaten in their last seven Premier League away games (W3, D4). Their past two away league losses came on Merseyside: at Liverpool in May and at Everton in September. Wolves have won their final league game in four of the last five calendar years. Raul Jimenez has been involved in seven of Wolves' 13 away league goals, scoring four goals and providing three assists.

19 Thursday 26 December 2019 H Man City 15:00 Molineux W3-2

19 Wolves 3 Traoré (55'), Jiménez (82'), Doherty (89') Man City 2 Ederson (Dismissed at 12'), Sterling (25',50')

HT 1-0

Wolves v Man City (19:45) was on Amazon Prime

Table Half Way

Team      P GD Pts

1 Liverpool 18 32 52

2 Leicester 19 23 39

3 Man City  19 29 38

4 Chelsea   19  6 32

5 Wolves    19  5 30

Matt Doherty's late winner meant Wolves are only the second team to complete a league double against a side managed by Pep Guardiola, after (Conte's) Chelsea became the first in 2016-17 Wolves fought back from two goals down to beat 10-man Manchester City in a memorable and controversial Premier League encounter at Molineux. City looked as though they would make light of the 12th-minute red card shown to goalkeeper Ederson for a foul on Diogo Jota when Raheem Sterling scored twice. The first came after two dramatic interventions by the video assistant referee, one to award City a penalty, then to rule a retake, both of which Rui Patricio saved before Sterling tapped the rebound from the second kick into an empty net.

But Wolves, roared on by a passionate crowd, levelled through Adama Traore and Raul Jimenez before Matt Doherty won it with a shot from the edge of the area in the final minute. The result leaves City in third place, 14 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. There were jubilant scenes among the home fans at the final whistle - but the match was overshadowed by an incident which saw objects thrown from the stands as City celebrated their opener. It seems certain that will lead to further action, as a public announcement needed to be made warning supporters that charges would be brought against anyone caught on CCTV committing an offence.

A famous Wolves comeback

When Sterling scored the opener, Manchester City manager Guardiola did not look entirely satisfied that the winger had taken both spot-kicks. There was no complaint about the England international's second goal of the night, though, as he raced on to Kevin de Bruyne's superb through ball and chipped brilliantly past an advancing Rui Patricio. It was the first time Sterling had scored two in a league game since the opening day of the season - and City seemed certain to become only the sixth team in Premier League history to win after having a man sent off in the opening 12 minutes. Instead, it provided the backdrop to a Wolves comeback that will live long in the memory. Guardiola had brought on Eric Garcia and changed to a three-man defence at the break. It was supposed to repel the twin threat posed by Jimenez's power and Traore's pace. But that defence was breached five minutes after Sterling's second when Traore drove a shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the area.  It was the Spaniard's third goal of the season against City - only Eden Hazard and Jamie Vardy had previously scored that many against a Guardiola team in a Premier League season.  More was to come. A dreadful loss of possession inside his own area by Benjamin Mendy allowed Traore to cross low for Jimenez, who converted from close range.  Roared on by a partisan crowd and with tensions on the touchline heightening, Wolves won it - with Doherty providing the climax by drilling home from the edge of the area. He raced away to be greeted by ecstatic team-mates as Nuno Espirito Santo and his coaching staff leapt for joy on the touchline.  Both sides must play again within 48 hours of the final whistle at Molineux - a result of the congested festive fixture programme that has brought complaints from both Nuno and Guardiola.

An early night for Ederson and Aguero

Wolves 3-2 Manchester City: 'Unrealistic' to think about title race - Pep Guardiola

In his pre-match media conference, Guardiola said replacing Sergio Aguero would be one of his hardest tasks as manager. The City boss was referring to the possibility of the striker's exit at the end of his contract in 2021. Little did he know then that he would be replacing Aguero against Wolves after just 12 minutes.  Just back from a thigh injury, the Argentine was only playing at Molineux because Gabriel Jesus had been ruled out through illness. But when Ederson raced out of his penalty area and clumsily brought Jota down, Aguero was the man substituted to allow second-choice keeper Claudio Bravo to come on. Aguero looked less than impressed, although he got himself off the pitch far quicker than Ederson.  The Brazilian keeper pleaded his case to referee Martin Atkinson, waited for VAR confirmation that the decision was correct, and then hung around some more before eventually heading down the tunnel. Sergio Aguero was making first start since 23 November following a thigh injury which ruled him out of seven matches

VAR in the middle of more drama - If the VAR intervention for Ederson's dismissal was fairly straightforward, what happened around City's opening goal lit the fuse for furious reactions on the pitch and disgraceful scenes off it that led to the public address announcement warning supporters about their behaviour. The trigger was a tackle on City winger Riyad Mahrez by Wolves defender Leander Dendoncker, which Atkinson ignored as he awarded a goal-kick. VAR had other ideas and decided contact between the pair merited a City penalty.  Sterling took it, Rui Patricio saved to his right and the ball was cleared behind for a corner.  But VAR wasn't done. Replays showed Wolves skipper Conor Coady had encroached into the penalty area before making the clearance, so a retake was awarded.

The Premier League explained that VAR identified both Coady (white boots on the left side of the penalty box) and Manchester City's Bernardo Silva (to Coady's right) had encroached inside the penalty area before the ball was kicked. Because Coady's encroachment had a material impact, VAR advised the referee that the penalty should be retaken.

On the touchline, Guardiola appeared to be screaming for someone else to take it. The message did not get through. Again Sterling went to Patricio's right. Again the Wolves keeper saved. But this time the rebound rolled straight back to the City man, who tapped home. In front of the home dug-out, Wolves assistant boss Rui Silva was furious, ripping off his gloves in a rage before shouting at fourth official Andre Marriner. The City players celebrated in front of the Jack Hayward Stand. As they did so, missiles were thrown at them, one of which was handed to Atkinson, who in turn, brought it to the touchline for Marriner to pass to Wolves security staff. It was after that the public announcement came, although this just fuelled anti-VAR sentiment among the Wolves fans, who made their feelings clear by chanting "it's not football any more".

Man of the match - Matt Doherty (Wolves) (No - it was Traore) - pic Matt Doherty celebrates scoring Wolves' winner against Manchester City The Wolves matchwinner provided the perfect ending to a memorable game

Why Wolves can never be written off - the key stats

Wolves have won more points from losing positions than any other side in the Premier League this season (14).

Manchester City had just 37.8% possession versus Wolves - the lowest figure recorded by a side managed by Pep Guardiola in top-flight history. City lost a Premier League game having led by two or more goals for the first time since April 2018, when they were beaten 3-2 at home by Manchester United. Only Tottenham (eight) and West Ham (six) have lost more games in Premier League history having led by two or more goals than Manchester City (five), with two of those defeats coming under Pep Guardiola. Wolves have completed their first league double over Manchester City for the first time since 1999-2000 in the second tier, and for the first time in the top-flight since 1960-61. Adama Traore is only the third player to score three goals in a single Premier League season against Guardiola's Manchester City, following Eden Hazard and Jamie Vardy (both in 2016-17). Of all the players with more than one top-flight goal to their name, Traore is the only man ever to have scored more than half of his  Premier League goals against the reigning champions. Three of his five top-flight strikes have come against the champions, a ratio of 60%.  Manchester City's Raheem Sterling has scored more goals in all competitions this season than any other Premier League player (20). Wolves' Raul Jimenez has been directly involved in 26 goals in all competitions this season (17 goals, nine assists) - more than any other Premier League player. Ederson became just the second Manchester City goalkeeper to be sent off in the Premier League, after Andy Dibble against QPR in October 1994. No player has provided more assists in Europe's big five leagues this season than Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne (11).

What's next?

Both sides have less than 48 hours to prepare for their next Premier League fixture in the busy Christmas period. Wolves go to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday (16:30 BST), with Manchester City hosting Sheffield United on the same day (18:00 GMT).

Match Stats FT

         Wolves Man City

Possession 62%  38%

Shots      20    7

Shots on Tgt 8   3

Corners     3    1

Fouls       7   13

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto sub Vinagreat 73' 37Traoré 9Jiménez sub Bennettat 90+4' 18Jota sub Netoat 79' Substitutes 4Vallejo 5Bennett 7Neto 10Cutrone 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 49Kilman

Man City

31Ederson booking 12' 2Walker 30Otamendi booking 60' 25Fernandinho 22Mendy 16Rodri 20Bernardo Silva 26Mahrez sub Garcíaat 45' 17De Bruyne sub Gündoganat 67' 7Sterling 10Agüero sub Bravoat 14' Substitutes 1Bravo 8Gündogan 11Zinchenko 12Angelino 27Cancelo 47Foden 50García

Referee: Martin Atkinson Attendance: 31,737

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Manchester City 2.

Full Time  90'+5' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Manchester City 2.

 90'+4' Sub, (WW) Ryan Bennett replaces Raúl Jiménez. 90'+3' Raheem Sterling (MC) hits the bar with a right footed shot from outside the box from a direct free kick. 90'+2' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 90'+2' Raheem Sterling (MC) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 90'+1' Corner, (MC) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 90'+1' Attempt blocked. Bernardo Silva (MC) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Kyle Walker with a cross. Goal!

89' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Manchester City 2. Matt Doherty (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez.

88' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho. 88' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 88' Foul by Bernardo Silva (MC). 84' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 84' Foul by Kyle Walker (MC). 83' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 83' Fernandinho (MC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Goal!

82' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Manchester City 2. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from very close range to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Adama Traoré.  80' Foul by Rúben Vinagre (WW). 80' Bernardo Silva (MC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 80' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Nicolás Otamendi.  79' Sub, (WW) Pedro Neto replaces Diogo Jota.  76' Rúben Vinagre (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 76' Foul by Raheem Sterling (MC). 75' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 75' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Kyle Walker. 73' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) header from very close range is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. 73' Sub, (WW) Rúben Vinagre replaces Jonny. 72' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 72' Foul by Kyle Walker (MC). 70' Foul by Jonny (WW). 70' Kyle Walker (MC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 69' Attempt saved. Adama Traoré (WW) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 67' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by João Moutinho. 67' Sub, (MC) Ilkay Gündogan replaces Kevin De Bruyne. 66' Attempt missed. Kevin De Bruyne (MC) right footed shot from the left side of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Benjamin Mendy. 63' Attempt saved. Leander Dendoncker (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by João Moutinho. 62' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. Booking 60' Nicolás Otamendi (MC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 60' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 60' Foul by Nicolás Otamendi (MC). 58' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 58' Foul by Nicolás Otamendi (MC). 56' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 56' Foul by Nicolás Otamendi (MC). Goal!

55' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Manchester City 2. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Rúben Neves.

53' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Jonny. 52' VAR Decision: No Penalty Wolverhampton Wanderers. Goal! 50' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester City 2. Raheem Sterling (MC) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Kevin De Bruyne with a through ball. 47' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez with a through ball.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester City 1.

45' Sub, (MC) Eric García replaces Riyad Mahrez.

Match Stats HT

        Wolves Man City

Possession 61% 39%

Shots       8   3

Shots on Tgt 3  2

Corners      1  0

Fouls        3  5

Half Time 45'+8' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester City 1.  

45'+6' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 45'+6' Raheem Sterling (MC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 45'+5' Attempt missed. Adama Traoré (WW) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 45'+4' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 45'+4' Foul by Raheem Sterling (MC). 45'+2' Hand ball by Bernardo Silva (MC). 45'+1' Attempt saved. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Romain Saïss. 44' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by João Moutinho. 44' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 44' Foul by Riyad Mahrez (MC). 42' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) header from the centre of  the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré with a cross. 41' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Jonny with a cross. 41' Attempt blocked. Jonny (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 36' Offside, (MC) Benjamin Mendy tries a through ball, but Raheem Sterling is caught offside. 36' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 36' Kevin De Bruyne (MC) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 29' Attempt missed. Raheem Sterling (MC) right footed shot from the right side of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Fernandinho. 26' Foul by Riyad Mahrez (MC). 26' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Goal! 25' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Manchester City 1. Raheem Sterling (MC) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal following a set piece situation. 25' Penalty saved! Raheem Sterling (MC) fails to capitalise on this great opportunity, right footed shot saved in the bottom left corner. 24' VAR Decision: Penalty Manchester City. 21' VAR Decision: Penalty Manchester City. 21' Penalty Manchester City. Riyad Mahrez draws a foul in the penalty area. 21' Penalty conceded by Leander Dendoncker (WW) after a foul in the penalty area. 20' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the right side of the six yard box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 19' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Benjamin Mendy. 15' Attempt saved. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 14' Sub, (MC) Claudio Bravo replaces Sergio Agüero. Dismissal 12' Ederson (MC) is shown the red card. 11' Foul by Ederson (MC). 11' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 2' Foul by Kyle Walker (MC).  2' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

Kick Off First Half begins.

pre match

TEAM NEWS

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo has reported no new injury concerns but he could make changes, as his side will have just 45 hours of recovery before playing Liverpool. Morgan Gibbs-White, Willy Boly and Bruno Jordao remain sidelined. Manchester City midfielder David Silva and centre-back John Stones are still ruled out with injuries. Striker Sergio Aguero is again expected to be on the bench following his return from a thigh problem.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@ConorMcNamaraIE: The counter-attacking speed of Adama Traore was perfectly deployed at the Etihad in October and Manchester City's defence will not be looking forward to facing him again. In the last home game at Molineux, Tottenham grabbed a late winner to inflict Wolves' first league defeat since mid-September. Expect the always excellent atmosphere to be turned up another notch for this one as Nuno Espirito Santo looks to make amends. Sergio Aguero made his first appearance in a month with an 89th minute cameo in City's win over Leicester. City fans will keen to see more of him as Pep Guardiola goes in search of his 100th Premier League win.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo: "We are the team that has less hours [of recovery] in this period - 45 hours between two games and 112 hours between the three games until New Year's Day. "It's going to be very tough, I think all of the managers are concerned and rightly so. I'm particularly concerned because I've been saying this; the schedule doesn't make sense, it's absurd. For all the teams.

We have to survive. Let's see what happens. "

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola: "They're always one of the toughest opponents. Nuno [Espirito Santo] is doing an incredible job. "They are one of the toughest opponents away - and at home as well - because of the quality they have. They are incredibly well organised with pace up front, an incredibly difficult opponent."

Wolves' half-term report is a glowing one. It is not a case of 'must do better', more 'can they do any better?' Their win over Manchester City at Etihad Stadium was one of their best results of the first half of the season, and they also showed last week against Norwich that they have the resolve to win games when things initially do not go well for them.  I am sure Wolves will again look to use the pace of Adama Traore, who scored twice against City in October, but I don't see a repeat result.

Manchester City 3-1 Leicester City: Pep Guardiola pleased with Man City's comeback win Pep Guardiola's side have looked a lot more like their old selves with their attacking displays against Arsenal and Leicester in the past couple of weeks, scoring three times in both games. Of course there is still a question mark over City defensively, but they will take the game to Wolves and I think they will win it.

Lawro's prediction: 0-2 Richard Hawley's prediction: 2-2

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Wolves won 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium in October, and can win both league meetings with Manchester City in a top-flight season for the first time since the 1960-61 season. City have recorded victories in just two of their five previous Premier League games at Molineux, losing twice and drawing 1-1 there last season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers could lose back-to-back league games at Molineux for the first time since defeats to Liverpool and Crystal Palace 12 months ago. The 2-1 loss to Tottenham was only Wolves' second defeat in their last 17 league home fixtures (W9, D6). They have claimed 21 points against opposition from the established top six since promotion in 2018 (W5, D6, L6). Nuno Espirito Santo's side have scored in each of their last 17 Premier League games but have not netted more than twice in any match in that run. Wolves have lost each of their last 12 top-flight games played on a Friday, while Man City have lost just one of their eight such matches (W4, D3).

Manchester City's tally of 19 Premier League points away from home this season is bettered only by Liverpool. They can record back-to-back clean sheets in away league games for the first time since April. Victory would see City boss Pep Guardiola reach 100 Premier League wins, and break the record for fewest games needed to reach the  landmark. He has won 99 of 132 matches, and is set to overhaul Jose Mourinho, who registered his 100th win in his 142nd game. Of Guardiola's 16 Premier League defeats, seven have come in the month of December. City have conceded the opening goal in seven Premier League matches this season, only one short of their combined tally from 2017-18 and 2018-19.

18 Saturday 21 December 2019 A Norwich 15:00 Carrow Road for Abbswolf

Norwich City 1 Cantwell (17) Wolves 2 Saïss (60), Jiménez (81)

HT 1-0

Raul Jimenez scored his 16th goal of the season as Wolves came from behind to win 2-1 at Norwich, who are now six points from safety in the Premier League.  The Canaries dominated the first half and deservedly took the lead when Todd Cantwell fired home from the middle of the box after pouncing on a loose ball. But Wolves hit back after the break when Romain Saiss headed powerfully home. Jimenez then snatched victory for the visitors when he fired in after Tim Krul had denied Matt Doherty.

It was a disappointing result for Norwich, who could have been out of sight in the first half after Teemu Pukki was twice denied when one on one with keeper Rui Patricio, while Alex Tettey hit the post. The Canaries remain in 19th place but Southampton's win against Aston Villa means the Saints move up to 17th, six points clear of Norwich. Meanwhile, victory for Wolves moves them up to sixth and gets them back to winning ways after their 11-match unbeaten run was ended by Tottenham last week.

Todd Cantwell has been directly involved in seven Premier League goals this season (five goals and two assists) Home form is likely to be key to Norwich's hopes of staying in the Premier League and it is something that needs to drastically improve if they are to survive for a second season in the top flight.  This defeat means they are now without a win in front of their own fans since their impressive 2-1 victory against champions Manchester City on 26 September. Despite that worrying run, there were positives to take from this performance as they dominated a surprisingly subdued Wolves side for well over an hour. This display, coupled with the one in their 1-1 draw with second-placed Leicester last weekend, should give concerned home fans some comfort, but having let slip a lead for a second game in a row, Daniel Farke's side need to start improving their ability to close out matches.

Wolves leave it late again

Wolves are once again on course for a season in which they surpass expectations and are looking capable of bettering their seventh-place finish last term.  However, while they did not get the result their performance warranted against Tottenham last time out, this was a game they were fortunate to win, with Patricio called upon to make several excellent saves in the first half to restrict Norwich to a one-goal lead at the break. But under Nuno Espirito Santo, Wolves are team that fight until the very end of games, and they made the most of their limited chances to turn another potential defeat into victory. This is the 11th time in the Premier League this season they have conceded the first goal - the joint-most alongside Arsenal - but on eight of those occasions they have fought back to get a result and that was the case once again.  

Man of the match - Rui Patricio (Wolves)

Rui Patricio of Wolves makes a save against NorwichRui Patricio made several important saves in the first half to keep the deficit at one goal and give Wolves the platform to go on and win the game

'Small details the difference' - what they said

Norwich boss Daniel Farke, speaking to BBC Sport: "We were 1-0 up, played fantastic, we had two or three one on ones and hit the inside of the post. No-one could complain if we were 4-0 up at half-time. It feels like the most unfair sport in the world but you have to accept it. The small details were the difference today. I can't accuse my players too much. They played fantastic today. They were able to use two of their few chances - but we could not use our 10 or 12 chances. They are not machines. Even your best striker who is in red hot form missing chances. It is not a day to punish players.  It is a tough setback and we will be disappointed, but we go again."

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo, speaking to BBC Sport: "We had a very poor first half. We didn't block with the vertical balls that broke our lines, but I am happy we gave a very good second half. When you see you are making mistakes and try and learn from them, that is what the players did. The players recovered a lot of balls in Norwich's half and didn't let them play. We did that and took control of the game, we scored and managed the win very well.  We had to find new solutions to block Norwich. They are a very good team but I think we were better in the second half because we learned from our mistakes. It is part of us. We are relentless and go to the end. Every game is very important. Every game is a cup final, a final you have to compete in."

Clean sheet eludes Norwich again - the stats Wolves have beaten Norwich away from home in the top flight for only the second time, and the first since February 1980. Norwich have failed to keep a clean sheet in 13 Premier League home games, their longest such run in the competition. Raul Jimenez has been directly involved in 12 goals (seven goals and five assists) for Wolves in the Premier League this season, double that of any team-mate. Since the beginning of last season, Wolves' Joao Moutinho has assisted eight league goals from corner situations, at least two more than any other player Emiliano Buendia created nine chances in this match, seven of which came in the first half. The last Norwich player to create as many in a league game was Nathan Redmond, who set up nine chances in a Championship match against Birmingham in September 2014.

What next? Norwich travel to Aston Villa on 26 December (15:00 GMT), while Wolves host Manchester City on 27 December (19:45).

Norwich

1Krul 2Aarons 6Zimmermann 5Hanley booked 90' 3Byram booked 53' 27Tettey sub Hernándezat 87' 19Trybull sub Vrancicat 86' 17Buendía 23McLean 14Cantwell sub Srbenyat 86' 22Pukki Substitutes 8Vrancic 11Hernández 12Lewis 18Stiepermann 21Fährmann 24Amadou 32Srbeny

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker 16Coady 27Saïss booked 57' 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho booked 70' 19Castro Otto booked 33' 37Traoré 9Jiménez sub Cutroneat 90+4' 18Jota sub Netoat 77' Substitutes 4Vallejo 5Bennett 7Neto 10Cutrone 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 49Kilman

Referee: Peter Bankes

        Norwich Wolves

Possession 50%  50%

Shots      13   14

Shots on Tgt 7   4

Corners     3   11

Fouls       7   14

Match ends, Norwich City 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

Full Time 90'+7' Second Half ends, Norwich City 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

90'+7' Corner, (NC) Conceded by Patrick Cutrone. Booking 90'+6' Matt Doherty (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.  90'+6' Onel Hernández (NC) wins a free kick on the left wing.  90'+4' Sub, (WW) Patrick Cutrone replaces Raúl Jiménez. Booking  90'+1' Grant Hanley (NC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 89' Attempt saved. Teemu Pukki (NC) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía with a headed pass. 88' Emiliano Buendía (NC) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 88' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW).   87' Sub, (NC) Onel Hernández replaces Alexander Tettey.  86' Sub, (NC) Dennis Srbeny replaces Todd Cantwell. 86' Sub, (NC) Mario Vrancic replaces Tom Trybull. 84' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Sam Byram. 83' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Max Aarons. 83' Attempt blocked. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Matt Doherty.

Goal!

81' Goal! Norwich City 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the top left corner.

81' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Pedro Neto with a cross. 80' Attempt blocked. João Moutinho (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Matt Doherty with a cross. 77' Sub, (WW) Pedro Neto replaces Diogo Jota. 76' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. 74' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Max Aarons. 72' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 71' Offside, (NC) Kenny McLean tries a through ball, but Teemu Pukki is caught offside. Booking 70' João Moutinho (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 69' Emiliano Buendía (NC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 69' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 69' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is high and wide to the left. 67' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Grant Hanley. 67' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 66' Tom Trybull (NC) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 66' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 66' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 66' Emiliano Buendía (NC) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 65' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Grant Hanley. 64' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 64' Foul by Todd Cantwell (NC). 63' Attempt missed. Kenny McLean (NC) left footed shot from outside the box is too high from a direct free kick. 62' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 62' Emiliano Buendía (NC) wins a free kick in the attacking half.

Goal! 60'

Goal! Norwich City 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box following a corner.

60' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Grant Hanley. 60' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré.  59' Attempt missed. Emiliano Buendía (NC) left footed shot from outside the box is just a bit too high following a set piece situation. Booking  57' Romain Saïss (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 57' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 57' Alexander Tettey (NC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 56' Attempt blocked. Alexander Tettey (NC) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía. 55' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 55'Max Aarons (NC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 54' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 54' Tom Trybull (NC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 53' Offside, (WW) João Moutinho tries a through ball, but Adama Traoré is caught offside. Booking 53' Sam Byram (NC) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 53' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 53' Foul by Sam Byram (NC). 52' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 52' Tom Trybull (NC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 51' Offside, (WW) João Moutinho tries a through ball, but Matt Doherty is caught offside. 48' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 48' Emiliano Buendía (NC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 47' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 47' Foul by Christoph Zimmermann (NC).

Second Half begins Norwich City 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

      Norwich Wolves

Possession 51% 49%Shots       9   4

Shots on Tgt 6  1

Corners     3   5

Fouls

Home4Away3

Analysis Telegrpahs

Half Time

45'+2' First Half ends, Norwich City 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0.

45' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Christoph Zimmermann. 43' Attempt saved. Teemu Pukki (NC) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía with a through ball. 40' Attempt missed. Teemu Pukki (NC) right footed shot from the centre of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía. 39' Attempt missed. Grant Hanley (NC) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía with a cross following a corner. 39' Corner, (NC) Conceded by Conor Coady. 38'  Attempt blocked. Matt Doherty (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 34' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Max Aarons. 33' Attempt missed. Christoph Zimmermann (NC) right footed shot from the left side of the box is high and wide to the left following a set piece situation. Booking  33' Jonny (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 33' Foul by Jonny (WW). 33' Max Aarons (NC) wins a free kick on the right wing. 31' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 31' Foul by Sam Byram (NC). 30' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Sam Byram. 29' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Tom Trybull. 29' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 27' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 27' Foul by Emiliano Buendía (NC). 26' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 24' Corner, (NC) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 24' Attempt saved. Teemu Pukki (NC) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía with a through ball. 23' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 23' Grant Hanley (NC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 22' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 22' Foul by Alexander Tettey (NC). Goal! 17' Goal! Norwich City 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0. Todd Cantwell (NC) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. 15' Offside, (NC) Grant Hanley tries a through ball, but Emiliano Buendía is caught offside. 13' Foul by Alexander Tettey (NC). 13' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 13' Attempt saved. Alexander Tettey (NC) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía. 11' Grant Hanley (NC) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 11' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 8' Offside, (NC) Todd Cantwell tries a through ball, but Teemu Pukki is caught offside. 7' Attempt saved. Teemu Pukki (NC) right footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía. 6' Corner, (NC) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 6' Attempt saved. Kenny McLean (NC) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Emiliano Buendía with a through ball. 3' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Sam Byram. Kick Off First Half begins.

Lawro's prediction:

Wolves were beaten last week, for the first time since September, but anyone who watched their game against Tottenham will see that they did not deserve to be. Norwich also played very well, and picked up a very good point, at Leicester. People rave about the way they played in their win over Manchester City in September, but that display was up there too - the Canaries were well-drilled, and disciplined.  If they can repeat that performance, they can repeat that result - but I don't see Wolves losing two games on the bounce.

Lawro's prediction: 1-1

Note Monday 15 December Europa Cup Round of 32 dra w

Wolves are unseeded having finished second DRAWN V RCD ESPANYOL

 

17 Sunday 14 December 2019 H Spurs 14:00tbc Molineux L1-2

Wolves 1 Traoré (67') THFC 2 Lucas Moura (8'), Vertonghen (90'+1minutes)

HT 0-1

Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho said his side had won an "incredible three points" against a Wolves team he believes can challenge for the Champions League places. Jan Vertonghen scored a dramatic late winner as Spurs ended Wolves' 11-match unbeaten Premier League run to narrow the gap on the top four with victory at Molineux. Vertonghen headed in from a corner in injury time, after Wolves' relentless approach had been rewarded as Adama Traore thumped in a deserved equaliser from the edge of the box midway through the second half.

On Wolves, Mourinho said: "My feeling is they are fighting for more than they said. They are not just there for the top six. They can do more. They are a fantastic team. This is a big victory. This game is a special game because the opponent is a special opponent. Nuno [Espirito Santo] has to be very proud of Wolves' record." On his own side's progress, he added: "We went about a year without winning a Premier League game away and we've managed two in a short amount of time. Now we are not looking to the bottom of the table, we're looking higher up."

Following a breathless opening period, Lucas Moura's mazy run and exquisite finish into the roof of the net had put Tottenham ahead after eight minutes. Spurs had to withstand intense pressure as Wolves chased an equaliser, but it was they who went closest before half-time as Eric Dier struck the post from Dele Alli's delightful, dinked pass. Tottenham goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga produced an excellent save from Romain Saiss' header in the closing stages as Mourinho's visitors appeared to be hanging on, before Vertonghen's decisive goal.

Victory sees Tottenham climb above Wolves to fifth, three points behind fourth-placed Chelsea who they face next Sunday (16:30 GMT).

Spurs manager Jose Mourinho praised his side's 2-1 victory over 'special opponent' Wolves. Ahead of his side's trip to Molineux, Tottenham boss Mourinho made clear his belief that Spurs will qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.  Vertonghen's late header has suddenly turned that into a very realistic prospect, with Spurs set to welcome the Blues - who slumped to a fourth league defeat in five against Bournemouth on Saturday - to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next weekend. Aiming for a fifth consecutive top-four finish, Spurs have narrowed an 11-point gap to the Champions League places with four wins from five league games since Mourinho's appointment. With the top-four door ajar, Spurs made a purposeful start as Son Heung-min saw an attempt stopped by Rui Patricio, but it did not take long for their early enthusiasm to pay off as Moura's fast feet and emphatic finish stunned Wolves. A second goal always appeared crucial for Mourinho's side, who had conceded at least two goals in five of their six games under the  Portuguese prior to kick-off, as the energetic hosts dominated in possession and territory. Often unconvincing, the Spurs backline weathered the storm and allowed for counter opportunities - but Dier was unable to provide the finish that Alli's sublime pass over the Wolves defence deserved. Outplayed and having not kept a clean sheet away from home since New Year's Day - a club-record run of 16 matches - Traore's equaliser came as no surprise. What will delight Mourinho, however, was the determined manner of his side's response to conceding, and a confidence-boosting late winner that puts their top-four hopes firmly in their own hands.

Result harsh on impressive Wolves

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo praised his team's performance in a 2-1 defeat by Spurs As the halfway stage of the season  approaches, a Wolves side which could be forgiven for suffering a hint of fatigue played with an intensity and determination that was fully deserving of a point - if not all three. Nuno Espirito Santo has praised his players' commitment and togetherness during their packed campaign, which has seen them play 31 games as they juggle domestic competition with their first European campaign in almost 40 years. Wolves typically relish their match-ups with the Premier League's big sides and responded to their early setback in style with a swashbuckling home display. The ever-improving Traore's low drive forced Gazzaniga into action, while Raul Jimenez dragged wide and Diogo Jota saw an attempt blocked following a swift counter as the hosts began to pick their way through the Tottenham defence. Despite contesting their fifth game in 15 days, Wolves pressed and harried Spurs, boasting 87.5% of possession in the final five minutes of the first half, but to no avail. They emerged in the second half with the same intent, as Joao Moutinho and Ruben Neves continued to dictate the play and Jimenez again went close before Traore's spectacular equaliser after 67 minutes. A menace all game, Toby Alderweireld and Vertonghen struggled to cope with Traore's frightening pace down the right, with Spurs resorting to fouling the 23-year-old as he threatened to burst away on several occasions. With a point on the horizon, conceding in the 91st minute will come as a huge disappointment to Nuno's side - though once the dust settles they will surely feel proud of another excellent showing.

Man of the match - Adama Traore (Wolves)

Adama Traore

Registering all three of his shots on target - more than any other player - Adama Traore also delivered more open-play crosses and won more duels than anyone else in an excellent performance  'Three incredible points' - what they said Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho: "We knew the game was going to be difficult. They didn't catch us by surprise. We had a very good start like we tried to. We almost scored a second goal but against Wolves that would not have killed the game. We knew if we arrive in the last part we could score. After that we had to close the door for the last five minutes. Three incredible points."

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo: "Of course I'm pleased with the performance. We played very good. We weren't perfect, almost. We should have defended better. We played well and created chances. I'm very pleased with the boys. The final moments require a lot of focus. We must stay in the game until the end. We were more obsessed about scoring than defending."

Last-gasp winners a rarity for Spurs - the stats

Tottenham have won two of their three Premier League away games under Jose Mourinho, as many as they did in Mauricio Pochettino's final 14 away from home in the competition. Since a 3-1 defeat as Chelsea boss in October 2015, Mourinho has not lost any of his last 54 Premier League games when his side has scored the opening goal. Lucas Moura has scored three goals in five Premier League appearances under Mourinho after managing only one in 10 games under Pochettino earlier this season. Jan Vertonghen scored Tottenham's first 90th-minute winner in the Premier League since Harry Winks against Fulham in January.

Wolves suffered just their third home defeat in the top flight in 2019 and their first since a 5-2 defeat by Chelsea in September.

Adama Traore's equaliser for Wolves was his fourth goal of the season in 26 appearances, which is twice as many as he scored in his previous 82 matches as a Premier League player in all competitions. No two players have combined for more Premier League goals this season than Traore and Raul Jimenez.

What's next?

Tottenham will learn their Champions League last-16 opponents in Monday's draw, with Barcelona, Juventus, Paris St-Germain, Valencia and RB Leipzig possible opponents. They will then have their shot at leapfrogging current fourth-placed Chelsea on Sunday (16:30 GMT). The likes of Ajax, Inter Milan and Sevilla are potential opponents for Wolves in the Europa League last-32 draw, with a trip to Norwich to come on Saturday (15:00).

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker booked 89' 16Coady 27Saïss booked 75' 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho booked 60' 19Castro Otto booked 65' 37Traoré 9Jiménez 18Jota Substitutes 5Bennett 7Neto 10Cutrone 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 49Kilman 56Ashley-Seal

Tottenham

22Gazzaniga 24Aurier 6D Sánchez booked 64' 4Alderweireld booked 69' 5Vertonghen 17Sissoko 15Dier booked 77' 27Lucas Moura sub Eriksenat  89' 20Alli sub Winksat 90+2' 7Son Heung-'ubstituted forFoythat 90+2' 10Kane booked 83' Substitutes 8Winks 18Lo Celso 19R Sessegnon 21Foyth 23Eriksen 29Skipp 41Whiteman

Referee: Stuart Attwell Attendance: 31,674

         Wolves Tottenham

Possession 58%  42%

Shots      19    9

Shots on Tgt 5   5

Corners    11    2

Fouls      14   10

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Tottenham Hotspur 2.

Full Time  90'+6'

Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Tottenham Hotspur 2.

90'+5' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. 90'+5' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Romain Saïss. 90'+4' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Toby Alderweireld. 90'+2' Sub, (TH) Juan Foyth replaces Son Heung-Min. 90'+2' Sub, (TH) Harry Winks replaces Dele Alli. Goal! 90'+1' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Tottenham Hotspur 2. Jan Vertonghen (TH) header from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. assisted by Christian Eriksen with a cross following a corner. 90' Corner, (TH) Conceded by Raúl Jiménez. 89' Sub, (TH) Christian Eriksen replaces Lucas Moura. Booking 89' Leander Dendoncker (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 88' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 88' Harry Kane (TH) wins a free kick on the left wing. 86' Hand ball by Diogo Jota (WW). 85' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 85' Foul by Serge Aurier (TH). 84' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from a difficult angle on the left is too high following a set piece situation. 84' Attempt saved. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. Booking 83' Harry Kane (TH) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 83' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 83' Foul by Harry Kane (TH). 82' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Moussa Sissoko. 81' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 81' Eric Dier (TH) wins a free kick on the left wing. 79' Attempt missed. Harry Kane (TH) right footed shot from the left side of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Lucas Moura. 79' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Adama Traoré. Booking 77' Eric Dier (TH) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 77' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 77' Foul by Eric Dier (TH). 77' Attempt saved. Harry Kane (TH) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Lucas Moura with a cross. 76' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 76' Dele Alli (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 75' VAR Decision: No card change Romain Saïss (WW). Booking 75' Romain Saïss (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 75' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 75' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 73' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 73' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 72' VAR Decision: No Penalty Tottenham Hotspur. 71' Offside, (TH) Eric Dier tries a through ball, but Son Heung-Min is caught offside. Booking 69' Toby Alderweireld (TH) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 69' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 69' Foul by Toby Alderweireld (TH). Goal!

67' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Tottenham Hotspur 1. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from outside the box to the top left corner. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez.

66' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 66' Jan Vertonghen (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Booking 65' Jonny (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 64' Foul by Jonny (WW). 64' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Booking 64' Davinson Sánchez (TH) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 63' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 63' Foul by Davinson Sánchez (TH). 62' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 62' Son Heung-Min (TH) wins a free kick on the left wing. 61' Hand ball by Rúben Neves (WW). Booking  60' João Moutinho (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 60' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 60' Son Heung-Min (TH) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 59' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 59' Foul by Toby Alderweireld (TH). 58' Attempt missed. Dele Alli (TH) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Lucas Moura. 56' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Jan Vertonghen. 55' Attempt blocked. Jonny (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Matt Doherty. 52' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 52' Lucas Moura (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 52' Attempt blocked. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 51' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Serge Aurier. 51' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Moussa Sissoko. 51' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 49' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. 48' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 48' Foul by Serge Aurier (TH).

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Tottenham Hotspur 1.

Half Time 45'+2' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Tottenham Hotspur 1.

45' Rúben Neves (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 45' Foul by Harry Kane (TH). 44' Attempt blocked. Lucas Moura (TH) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Harry Kane. 42' Attempt saved. Adama Traoré (WW) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 39' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Serge Aurier. 37' Eric Dier (TH) hits the left post with a right footed shot from the centre of the box. Assisted by Dele Alli with a through ball.  34' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho. 32' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Toby Alderweireld. 32' Attempt blocked. Jonny (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 27' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Davinson Sánchez. 27' Attempt blocked. João Moutinho (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 27' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho. 26' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 24' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 24' Dele Alli (TH) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 24' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from a difficult angle on the left is blocked. 21' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 21' Foul by Lucas Moura (TH). 20' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 20' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Jan Vertonghen. 17' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 17' Dele Alli (TH) wins a free kick on the right wing. 15' Attempt saved. Adama Traoré (WW) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 12' Corner, (TH) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 12' Attempt saved. Dele Alli (TH) right footed shot from a difficult angle on the left is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Lucas Moura. Goal! 8' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Tottenham Hotspur 1. Lucas Moura (TH) right footed shot from the right side of the box to the top right corner. Assisted by Eric Dier with a headed pass. 8' Attempt saved. Son Heung-Min (TH) left footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the top left corner. Assisted by Moussa Sissoko. 7' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Serge Aurier. 5' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Serge Aurier. 5' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 5' Foul by Eric Dier (TH). Kick Off First Half begins.

Nuno Espirito Santo played under Jose Mourinho at Porto

TEAM NEWS

Wolves are set to be much changed from the side that win in Europe in midweek.  Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo made seven changes for the game against Besiktas and top scorer Raul Jimenez is among those set to return. Spurs are also likely to restore many first-choice players, who were rested for the midweek trip to Bayern Munich. Harry Winks could feature, having returned to training after an ankle injury, but Tanguy Ndombele is still nursing a groin problem.

Jota hat-trick inspires Wolves Spurs await Champions League draw

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@alistairmann01: The last time Wolves enjoyed an unbeaten run longer than this in the top flight was in 1959 - an unscathed 18-game run which included them lifting the title. To beat that record they would need to keep blemish-free for the next eight matches, in a schedule which will see them face Spurs, Manchester City and Liverpool twice. Their initial challenge will be to negotiate a reinvigorated Tottenham, who've accumulated as many victories in Jose Mourinho's first four games in charge as they did in Mauricio Pochettino's last 15.  Perhaps equally as significantly, Spurs have even ended their away-day hoodoo during Mourinho's tenure, which will only serve to inspire them at a ground where they were also successful last season.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Jose Mourinho on Nuno Espirito Santo: "[He] is getting some praise for the work he is doing. In my opinion, not enough. He deserves more than what he is getting. Fantastic work. "He is a much better manager than a player. I'm not saying he was a bad player, but he's a much better manager. Wolves are one of the best teams from a tactical point of view."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Wolves are unbeaten in the Premier League since mid-September - 11 games ago - and it is clear they have got a bit of extra quality going right through their side.  Those runs cannot last forever though, and I am going to go for a Tottenham win. Prediction: 0-2

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

The home team hasn't won any of the last five times these sides have met, with the away side winning on three occasions. Tottenham have scored eight goals in their past three visits to Wolves.   Three of Wolves' last four Premier League home goals against Spurs have come from penalties.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have gone 11 league games without defeat (W5, D6) - they haven't had a better unbeaten run in the top flight since 1959. Wolves' tally of 24 points is their highest at this stage of a top-flight campaign since 1979. Nuno Espirito Santo's side have lost only one of their past 16 Premier League home games (W9, D6), a 5-2 defeat against Chelsea in September. Nine of their 16 league games this season have ended level - only Ipswich, in 1992-93, and Sunderland, in 2014-15, have drawn more matches at this stage of the competition. Since the start of last season, Wolves have taken 21 points from the established top six teams, more than any other side outside of that elite group.

Tottenham Hotspur have won three of their four Premier League games under Jose Mourinho. They won only three of their final 15 league matches under Mauricio Pochettino. Their total of six league victories so far in 2019-20 is exactly half as many as they had at this stage last season. Spurs have not kept a clean sheet away from home since New Year's Day - a club Premier League record run of 15 consecutive matches. Dele Alli has been involved in eight Premier League goals in nine games this season (five goals, three assists), as many as he was in 25 appearances in the top flight last season. Harry Kane has scored nine Premier League goals in 2019-20, and could become the first player to score 10 or more in six consecutive seasons for Spurs since Robbie Keane in 2008.

EU lge 6 Thursday 12 December 2019 H Besiktas 20:00 Molineux  (BT)  

EU G6 Wolves Jota (57', 63', 68'), Dendoncker (67')

Besiktas 0

HT 0-0

Table

  Team     P GD Pts

1 Sp Braga  6 6 14

2 Wolves    6 6 13

3 Sl Brat     6 -3 4

4 Besiktas  6 -9 3    Wolves could be drawn against any of Sevilla, Malmo, Basel, LASK, Celtic, Porto, Espanyol, Gent, Basaksehir, Ajax, Salzberg, Inter Milan or Benfica.  Draw Monday 16th Noon.

Diogo Jota is the first player to score a hat-trick after coming on as a substitute in the Europa League since Steven Gerrard for Liverpool against Napoli in November 2010

Pix PA Media

Wolves were denied top spot in their Europa League group, despite substitute Diogo Jota's 11-minute hat-trick inspiring victory over Besiktas.  After a drab first half, Jota came on as a 56th-minute substitute and headed in 72 seconds later to lift Molineux. He added a second six minutes later, reacting sharply to turn in when Leander Dendoncker's shot hit the post before the Belgian headed in a third. Jota fired in a fourth but Braga won 4-2 at Slovan Bratislava to top Group K.  The Portuguese side, who would not have topped the group if they failed to win after Wolves took control against Besiktas, were trailing 2-1 after 70 minutes before turning the match back in their favour.

Wolves were already assured of progressing whatever happened in the final round of group matches and go into Monday's draw for the knockout stage as one of the 12 runners-up. Combining their first European campaign in almost 40 years with the rigours of the Premier League season is a task which Wolves have juggled to good effect so far. With the Molineux men already though, and Besiktas's visit being their 30th game of the season, manager Nuno Espirito Santo used the opportunity - as expected - to shuffle his pack and give opportunities to some of his fringe players. The Portuguese boss makes seven changes from Sunday's 2-2 draw at Brighton with only skipper Conor Coady and midfield trio Ruben Neves, Joao Moutinho and Dendoncker keeping their places. Yet the incoming players failed to deliver in a drab first half where Wolves played with little urgency.  Jota's introduction changed both mood and momentum in spectacular fashion. The Portuguese forward picked up where he left off at Brighton, having scored both of Wolves' goals, with another masterclass in clinical opportunism. An intelligent run towards the far post allowed him to convert Pedro Neto's cutback with his first touch, instinctively reacting quickest to prod in the second as the Besiktas backline dithered. And Jota completed a memorable hat-trick - the fastest scored in the Europa League since September 2014 - when he again perfectly timed a run to the far post to meet Oskar Buur's precise cross between Besiktas's keeper Utku Yuvakuran and his static defence.

"I think everyone that is on the bench wants to come and make an impact, fortunately for me that impact was very good," he said. Wolves boss Nuno has challenged Jota to keep up his current hot streak. "He must do what he is doing every day, be really competitive, train well and prepare himself," the Portuguese boss said. "Be like he is on the pitch, always fighting, always looking for space, always running. Keep on keeping going."

Who could Wolves play in the last 32?

Although Wolves will have been hoping to finish top of their group, and therefore avoiding some of the bigger names in the last 32, they could not have asked much more from their debut season in Europe's secondary club competition. In a continental campaign which started back in July and has now spanned 12 games, they have eased into the knockout phase with little cause for concern. Now they await the identity of their next opponents when the draw is made in Nyon, Switzerland on Monday (12:00 GMT). Finishing runners-up behind Braga means they will face a group winner or one of the four best-ranked sides which have dropped down from the Champions League. The likes of last year's Champions League semi- finalists Ajax, Italian giants Inter Milan or Spanish side Sevilla are potential opponents, while a tie against Scottish champions Celtic is also a possibility.  However, Wolves cannot face Manchester United or Arsenal - winners of their respective groups - because teams from the same nation are kept apart at this stage of the tournament. The first leg of the last 32 is scheduled for Thursday, 20 February, with the second legs taking place a week later. "It was a good game, we played well, we scored goals, defended well and were organised. It was a well played game," Nuno added. "It was a tough competition and we've progressively got better. We fight game by game and it's taken us to the knockout stage.  We are delighted to be there but now we put it aside and wait for the draw."

Man of the match - Diogo Jota (Wolves) Diogo Jota completes his hat-trick Who else? Three shots, three goals in 12 minutes after coming on. A truly match-winning performance

What's next?

Wolves turn their attentions back to the Premier League, where they are sat in sixth place and on an 11-match unbeaten run, when they host seventh-placed Tottenham on Sunday (14:00 GMT). It is their fifth game in 15 days of a hectic December where they play eight matches across the Premier League, Europa League and League Cup, a schedule which Nuno has labelled "absurd".

Line-ups

Wolves

21Ruddy 5Bennett 16Coady 49Kilman booked  40' 59Buur 32Dendoncker sub Otasowieat 73' 8Neves sub Jotaat 56' 28João Moutinho sub Perryat 70' 29Vinagre 10Cutrone booked  90' 7Neto Substitutes 4Vallejo 18Jota 26Perry 54Otasowie 62Söndergaard 68Cundle 76Richards

Besiktas

97Yuvakuran 34Kalafat sub Rocoat 76' booked  90' 20Uysal booked  56' 12Kaya 23Braga Rebocho 10Ozyakup 44Secgin 27Lens sub Diabyat 81' 9Yalcin sub Elnenyat 64' 11Boyd 8Nayir Substitutes 3Roco 15Elneny 28Isler 30Destanoglu 33Yilmaz 53Ozkan 92Diaby

Referee: Andris Treimanis

FT Match Stats

         Wolves Besiktas

Possession 52%  48%

Shots      15    7

Shots on Tgt 7   0

Corners     6    1

Fouls      12    7

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 4, Besiktas 0.

Full Time 90'+4' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 4, Besiktas 0.

90'+4' Attempt blocked. Patrick Cutrone (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Rúben Vinagre with a cross. 90'+2' Attempt missed. Patrick Cutrone (WW) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Pedro Neto with a cross following a set piece situation. Booking 90'+2' Enzo Roco, (Bes) is shown the yellow card. Booking 90'+2' Patrick Cutrone (WW) is shown the yellow card. 90'+1' Hand ball by Pedro Rebocho, (Bes). 88' Foul by Owen Otasowie (WW). 88' Mehmet Umut Nayir, (Bes) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 85' Erdem Secgin, (Bes) wins a free kick on the right wing. 85' Foul by Max Kilman (WW). 83' Attempt missed. Ryan Bennett (WW) header from the right side of the six yard box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted  by Taylor Perry with a cross following a corner. 83' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Necip Uysal.  81' sub, (Bes) Abdoulaye Diaby replaces Jeremain Lens. 80' Attempt missed. Necip Uysal, (Bes) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Mohamed Elneny. 80' Attempt blocked. Mohamed Elneny, (Bes) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Jeremain Lens. 79' Foul by Taylor Perry (WW). 79' Mohamed Elneny, (Bes) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 78' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Erdogan Kaya. 76' ub, (Bes) Enzo Roco replaces Kerem Kalafat. 76' Owen Otasowie (WW) hits the bar with a header from the centre of the box. Assisted by Rúben Vinagre with a cross following a corner. 75' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Necip Uysal.  73' sub, (WW) Owen Otasowie replaces Leander  Dendoncker. 73' Foul by Oskar Buur (WW). 73' Mohamed Elneny, (Bes) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 72' Rúben Vinagre (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 72' Foul by Jeremain Lens, (Bes). 72' Attempt missed. Mehmet Umut Nayir, (Bes) right footed shot from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Kerem Kalafat. 70' sub, (WW) Taylor Perry replaces João Moutinho. Goal!

68' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 4, Besiktas 0. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from very close range to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Oskar Buur. Goal!

67' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 3, Besiktas 0. Leander Dendoncker (WW) header from the centre of the box to the top right corner. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner.

66' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Pedro Rebocho. 65' Attempt blocked. Jeremain Lens, (Bes) right footed shot from outside the box is  blocked. 64' sub, (Bes) Mohamed Elneny replaces Guven Yalcin. Goal!

63' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Besiktas 0. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal.

63' Attempt saved. Leander Dendoncker (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top left corner. Assisted by Diogo Jota. 63' Hand ball by Tyler Boyd, (Bes). 62' Attempt missed. Max Kilman (WW) header from very close range is close, but misses to the left following a corner. 62' Leander Dendoncker (WW) hits the right post with a right footed shot from very close range. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner. 61' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Necip Uysal. 59' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 59' Erdem Secgin, (Bes) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Goal!

57' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Besiktas 0. Diogo Jota (WW) header from the left side of the six yard box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Pedro Neto with a cross.

57' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 57' Mehmet Umut Nayir, (Bes) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 56' sub, (WW) Diogo Jota replaces Rúben Neves. Booking  56' Necip Uysal, (Bes) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 52' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 52' Necip Uysal, (Bes) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 51' Offside, (Bes) Tyler Boyd tries a through ball, but Guven Yalcin is caught offside. 47' Attempt missed. Pedro Neto (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by João Moutinho following a corner. 47' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Erdem Secgin.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Besiktas 0.

HT Match Stats

        Wolves Besiktas

Possession 55%  45%

Shots             3    3

Shots on Tgt 2   0

Corners        0    1

Fouls            5    4

Half Time 45'+1'

First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Besiktas 0.

45' Foul by Patrick Cutrone (WW). 45' Jeremain Lens, (Bes) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 42' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is too high. Assisted by Oskar Buur. Booking 40' Max Kilman (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 40' Foul by Max Kilman (WW). 40' Mehmet Umut Nayir, (Bes) wins a free kick on the right wing. 39' Foul by Conor Coady (WW). 39' Mehmet Umut Nayir, (Bes) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 35' Offside, (Bes) Kerem Kalafat tries a through ball, but Guven Yalcin is caught offside. 32' Attempt missed. Pedro Rebocho, (Bes) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Oguzhan Ozyakup. 29' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 29' Erdem Secgin, (Bes) wins a free kick on the left wing. 26' Rúben Vinagre (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 26' Foul by Jeremain Lens, (Bes). 25' Attempt blocked. Jeremain Lens, (Bes) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by Mehmet Umut Nayir. 20' Attempt saved. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. 19' Leander Dendoncker (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 19' Foul by Erdogan Kaya, (Bes). 18' Corner, (Bes) Conceded by Conor Coady. 18' Offside, (WW) Rúben Vinagre tries a through ball, but Patrick Cutrone is caught offside. 16' Rúben Neves (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 16' Foul by Guven Yalcin, (Bes). 15' Offside, (WW) Pedro Neto tries a through ball, but Patrick Cutrone is caught offside. 10' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 10' Foul by Kerem Kalafat, (Bes). 9' Offside, (Bes) Kerem Kalafat tries a through ball, but Jeremain Lens is caught offside. 9' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 9' Tyler Boyd, (Bes) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 3' Attempt saved. João Moutinho (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Patrick Cutrone. 2' Attempt missed. Tyler Boyd, (Bes) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Pedro Rebocho. Kick Off

First Half begins.

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo is expected to make plenty of changes for Thursday's Europa League game against Beskitas at Molineux.

The hosts have already secured their place in the last 32 and with a tough game against Tottenham to come on Sunday, Nuno is likely to rest a number of his first-team players.  Youngsters Taylor Perry, Luke Cundle and Chem Campbell could feature. However, striker Raul Jimenez is unavailable through suspension.  The Mexican has collected three cautions in their last three Europa games, earning him a ban. "I'm not going to tell you the team, but we're ready to compete well," said Nuno. "It's a good opportunity for us to prepare ourselves and compete well for the future."

16 Saturday 7 December 2019 A Brighton 15:00 Amex

16 Brighton 2 Maupay (34'), Pröpper (36') Wolves 2 Jota (28', 44')

HT 2-2

Diogo Jota scored twice as Wolves stretched their unbeaten run in the Premier League to 11 games with a 2-2 draw at Brighton.

All four goals were scored in an entertaining first half, with Jota putting the visitors ahead following a quick counter-attack, playing a one-two with Raul Jimenez before slotting in. Then came a crazy couple of minutes as Brighton turned the game on its head. First, Neal Maupay equalised after latching on to a long ball from Jack Stephens before thumping a strike beyond Rui Patricio's reach. Then, just 96 seconds later, the Seagulls took the lead when Davy Propper headed in Leandro Trossard's cross. Pic Getty

Brighton went close to adding a third when Aaron Mooy swept an effort just wide of the far post, before Jota equalised a minute before half-time. Jonny pounced on a defensive mistake before finding Jota inside the area and the Portuguese forward turned and tucked a shot in at the far post.  The second half failed to match the high tempo of the first, with Brighton's Maupay going closest to finding a winner when he fired a fierce shot that was held by Patricio.  The point moves Wolves up to sixth in the table, while Brighton remain 12th.

Fearless Seagulls keep up attacking intent The late afternoon Sunday game may not have featured one of the Premier League's traditional big guns but it nevertheless offered the prospect of an entertaining game, with both these teams having shown plenty of willingness to attack this season. They certainly delivered in a fast-paced first half in which both sides scored twice - only the third time that has happened this season after Norwich's 3-2 defeat by Chelsea and Liverpool's 5-2 victory over Everton. Fresh from beating Arsenal 2-1 last-time out, Brighton showed no fear against a Wolves side that had not lost in their previous 10 games and could easily have been out of sight in the first half, with Maupay's energy and Mooy's creativity proving a constant menace for the visitors' backline. But Wolves' attacking flair is a lot for many Premier League teams to handle and in the end a draw was perhaps a fair result. However, if Brighton continue to play with this level of positivity they are unlikely to be looking too nervously over their shoulders in the second half of the season.

Wolves' unbeaten run continues

It is already hard to believe that relegation looked a serious threat for Wolves this season but that was certainly the case after they failed to win any of their first six Premier League games and appeared to struggle with juggling domestic and Europa League commitments. But Nuno Espirito Santo's side have roared back impressively since recording their first Premier League win of the season on 28 September, when they beat Watford. They had won three of their four league games prior to the trip to the Amex and another win would have taken them back above both Tottenham and Manchester United into fifth in the table. Like Brighton, they lacked that bit of extra energy in the second half as a third game in seven days perhaps took its toll. But an 11th game without defeat means they are now on their longest unbeaten run in the top flight since 1962 and are looking well placed to challenge for a top-six finish.

Man of the match - Diogo Jota (Wolves)

Diogo Jota - After going 11 games without scoring this was a welcome return to form in front of goal for Diogo Jota, who looked sharp throughout and linked up superbly with Raul Jimenez

What next? Brighton are not in action again until Monday, 16 December when they travel to Crystal Palace in the Premier League (19:45 GMT) while Wolves host Besiktas in their final Europa League group game on Tuesday, 12 December (20:00 GMT).

Traore Pic AMA

Brighton

1Ryan 46Alzate 15Webster 5Dunk booked 75' 33Burn booked 82' 24Pröpper 6Stephens booked 90' 18Mooy 13Groß sub Jahanbakhshat 68' 7Maupay

11Trossard sub Murrayat 68' Substitutes 4Duffy 8Bissouma 16Jahanbakhsh 17Murray 22Montoya 27Button 30Bernardo

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto 37Traoré sub Vinagreat 90+3' 9Jiménez sub Cutroneat 85' 18Jota sub Netoat 77' Substitutes 4Vallejo 5Bennett 7Neto 10Cutrone 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 49Kilman

Referee: Jonathan Moss Attendance: 30,189

Match Stats

       Brighton Wolves

Possession  62% 38%

Shots       13  13

Shots on Tgt 4   5

Corners      3   4

Fouls       10   7

Match ends, Brighton and Hove Albion 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

Full Time 90'+4' Second Half ends, Brighton and Hove Albion 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

90'+3' sub, (WW) Rúben Vinagre replaces Adama Traoré. Booking 90'+2' Dale Stephens (BHA) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 90'+2' Foul by Dale Stephens (BHA). 90'+2' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 90' Attempt missed. Patrick Cutrone (WW) header from the centre  of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Rúben Neves. 88' Foul by Neal Maupay (BHA). 88' Conor Coady (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 86' Foul by Neal Maupay (BHA). 86' Matt Doherty (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 85'  sub, (WW) Patrick Cutrone replaces Raúl Jiménez. 83' Glenn Murray (BHA) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 83' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 83' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) left footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Rúben Neves. Booking 82' Dan Burn (BHA) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 81' Foul by Dan Burn (BHA). 81' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 77' Attempt missed. Dan Burn (BHA) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left following a set piece situation.  77'  sub, (WW) Pedro Neto replaces Diogo Jota. 76' Glenn Murray (BHA) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 76' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 76' Offside, (WW) Diogo Jota tries a through ball, but Raúl Jiménez is caught offside. Booking 75' Lewis Dunk (BHA) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 75' Foul by Lewis Dunk (BHA). 75' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 73' Steven Alzate (BHA) wins a free kick on the right wing. 73' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 72' Attempt missed. Dale Stephens (BHA) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left. 71' Attempt saved. Neal Maupay (BHA) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Steven Alzate. 69' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 69' Foul by Steven Alzate (BHA). 69' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 68'  sub, (BHA) Glenn Murray replaces Leandro Trossard. 68'  sub, (BHA) Alireza Jahanbakhsh replaces Pascal Groß. 67' Adam Webster (BHA) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 67' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 65' Neal Maupay (BHA) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 65' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). 61' VAR Decision: No Penalty Wolverhampton Wanderers. 61' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Adam Webster. 61' Attempt blocked. Adama Traoré (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. 61' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. 60' Attempt blocked. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 55' Attempt missed. Leandro Trossard (BHA) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Pascal Groß. 54' Corner, (BHA) Conceded by Romain Saïss. 54' Attempt blocked. Neal Maupay (BHA) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 50' Foul by Dan Burn (BHA). 50' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 47' Attempt saved. Matt Doherty (WW) with an attempt from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by João Moutinho.

Second Half begins Brighton and Hove Albion 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

HT Stats

       Brighton Wolves

Possession  61% 39%

Shots       10   7

Shots on Tgt 3   5

Corners      3   3

Fouls        4   2

Half Time 45'+2' First Half ends, Brighton and Hove Albion 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2.

45'+1' Pascal Groß (BHA) wins a free kick on the right wing. 45'+1' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). Goal!

44' Goal! Brighton and Hove Albion 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Jonny.

43' Corner, (BHA) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 42' Offside, (WW) Rúben Neves tries a through ball, but João Moutinho is caught  offside. 41' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Lewis Dunk. 39' Attempt missed. Aaron Mooy (BHA) right footed shot from the right side of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Steven Alzate. 37' Hand ball by Neal Maupay (BHA). Goal! 36' Goal! Brighton and Hove Albion 2, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Davy Pröpper (BHA) header from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Leandro Trossard. Goal! 34' Goal! Brighton and Hove Albion 1, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Neal Maupay (BHA) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Dale Stephens. 33' Attempt saved. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez with a headed pass. 30' Leandro Trossard (BHA) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 30' Foul by Romain Saïss (WW). 29' Attempt blocked. Pascal Groß (BHA) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked.  Goal!

28' Goal! Brighton and Hove Albion 0, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez.

23' Offside, (WW) Jonny tries a through ball, but Diogo Jota is caught offside. 22' Foul by Davy Pröpper (BHA). 22' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 18' Foul by Davy Pröpper (BHA). 18' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 16' Offside, (BHA) Dale Stephens tries a through ball, but Neal Maupay is caught offside.  13' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Pascal Groß. 13' Attempt saved. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 12' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Dan Burn. 10' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to  the left. 5' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Jonny. 4' Attempt saved. Neal Maupay (BHA) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. 3' Attempt missed. Lewis Dunk (BHA) header from the centre of the box is just a bit too high. Assisted by Pascal Groß with a cross following a corner. 2' Corner, (BHA) Conceded by Jonny. 2' Attempt blocked. Neal Maupay (BHA) right footed shot from very close range is blocked. 2'Attempt blocked. Steven Alzate (BHA) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Leandro Trossard with a cross.

Kick Off First Half begins.

Pre match pic JBG

TEAM NEWS

Brighton remain without injured wingers Solly March and Jose Izquierdo.  Fit-again defender Bernardo was an unused substitute against Arsenal and is in contention to play his first game since August. Wolves are again set to be without injured pair Wily Boly and Morgan Gibbs-White. Patrick Cutrone will hope to earn a recall to the starting line-up after scoring as a substitute in Wednesday's 2-0 win against West Ham.

Potter praises Brighton's "courage" after win at Arsenal

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@SimonBrotherton: Brighton will be buzzing after their memorable win at Arsenal but the Seagulls must now show they can deal with Thursday-Sunday football as well as their opponents have done all season. Wolves have qualified for the knockout stage of the Europa League with room to spare, and the midweek win over West Ham took their unbeaten run to 10 league games. If they avoid defeat it will be their longest undefeated streak in the top flight since an 11-match run 57 years ago. Albion will have had 24 hours fewer to recover and prepare for this game against opponents who have taken 10 points on the road this season, a record bettered only by the top four before the latest round of matches.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Graham Potter: "Anything is possible in this league, that's the way you have to think or else it becomes boring. We have to keep working towards what we're trying to achieve and maintain the spirit around the group."

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo: "I hope [the players] enjoyed their day off [on Thursday]. It was well deserved and they needed it. It was important they understand it's a day to rest, recover, stay at home and be with family and join us today to be ready for Sunday."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Wolves have not lost in the Premier League since 14 September, but I just have a feeling that their run will end here. Brighton will cause them some problems - the Seagulls will have to work hard to hold out though. Prediction: 2-1

Wolves have failed to score in their last four games against Brighton

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

Brighton have lost just one of their last 10 games against Wolves (W4, D5). Wolves have scored just once in the previous six meetings - a Connor Goldson own goal- and failed to net in the last four. The Molineux side have also been unable to score in the last seven top-flight meetings. Wolves' only top-flight goal against Brighton was scored by Mel Eves, in a 3-1 defeat at Molineux on 21 December 1979.

Brighton & Hove Albion Brighton could lose consecutive top-flight games at the Amex Stadium for the first time since a run of three defeats in March and April. The Seagulls ended a three-match losing streak by winning at Arsenal, and have now won four and lost four of their last eight league games. They have never won a Premier League home fixture after conceding the opening goal, losing 13 times and drawing seven. Seven of Brighton's last 10 league goals have come from set-pieces.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are vying to go unbeaten in 11 top-flight games for the first time since August to September 1962. They are undefeated in five Premier League away fixtures, their longest such run on the road in the top flight since a 10-match sequence in 1959. They have taken 10 points away from home this season, a tally bettered only by the current top four prior to the weekend's games. Joao Moutinho has set up 12 Premier League goals for Wolves - one short of the club record, held by Matt Jarvis.

15 Tuesday 3 December 2019 H West Ham 19:45 Molineux

15 Wolves 2 Dendoncker (23'), Cutrone (86') West Ham 0

HT 1-0

Leander Dendoncker (right) has scored his first Premier League goal since May. Wolves are on their best unbeaten run in the top flight since 1972 after seeing off West Ham with strikes from Leander Dendoncker and Patrick Cutrone at Molineux. Nuno Espirito Santo's side are back up to fifth in the Premier League after the Hammers failed to reproduce the kind of display that helped them to a shock win against Chelsea. It has been quite a turnaround for the Midlands side, who failed to record a win in their first six games but have now not lost any of their past 10, a run that began after their 5-2 home defeat by Chelsea on 14 September. Spanish winger Adama Traore has played a key role over this period and was excellent again on Wednesday, but the goals came from Dendoncker and substitute Cutrone. The Belgian defender gave Wolves the lead when he poked in from Joao Moutinho's corner in the 23rd minute, before Cutrone found the corner with a low drive, two minutes after replacing Raul Jimenez. West Ham's best chances fell the way of Pablo Fornals and Robert Snodgrass. Fornals forced a good save from Rui Patricio with a curling shot, before Snodgrass' heavy touch allowed the Portuguese keeper to snuff out the danger.

Traore terrific for Wolves who made nine crosses from open play in total during the match

The Wolves supporters were singing Traore's name within the first 20 minutes of the match. Praised by manager Nuno for his performance in the side's 2-1 win against Bournemouth last month, he followed that with another excellent run-out against Sheffield United on Sunday. On Wednesday, the former Barcelona player gave Aaron Cresswell and Fornals a workout right from the first whistle. The 23-year-old has always been lauded for his great pace, but his crossing has improved noticeably this campaign. He provide two great balls from the right in the opening quarter, one of which needed a headed clearance from Fabian Balbuena to prevent Jimenez from nodding in.

'Happy moment' as Wolves go 10 games unbeaten for first time in 46 years

Jimenez, with seven goals in the past nine Wolves games, also produced a bright display. His excellent surge and cross from the right would have resulted in Wolves' second had Jonny kept his composure with keeper David Martin to beat. The former Benfica player also should have done better with his strike, from Traore's through-ball, which was beaten away by the Hammers keeper.  Wolves' two goals were very different. The first owed a lot to the Hammers' poor marking, as they allowed Dendoncker space to poke home Moutinho's dead  all. And the second was a result of Jonny's superb lung-busting run which was followed by a pinpoint finish from Cutrone.

West Ham United manager Manuel Pellegrini criticises his side's defending of set-pieces. West Ham were poor. Striker Sebastien Haller, who joined the club for £45m in the summer and scored three goals in his three games, was once again anonymous having replaced Michail Antonio in attack. His one and only effort was an angled dinked shot from eight yards that cleared Patricio's bar by a few feet. Team-mate Fornals was far better in attack. His strike tested the agility of the Wolves keeper before he set up Snodgrass, whose awful second touch allowed Patricio to make a save.  The former Scotland international was injured in the incident when his stretched leg collided with the goalkeeper, and was substituted as a consequence.  Manuel Pellegrini's side have now only managed one win in their past nine league games.

Man of the match - Adama Traore (Wolves) Adama Traore has been consistently impressing for Wolves this season, and stood out again against West Ham

'We're always competing' - reaction

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo, speaking to Match of the Day about their 10-match unbeaten league run: "I'm proud of the players and fans. Everybody was part of it. Everything we've achieved is common effort. It's the way we embrace our effort." On success during an the intense schedule: "We're trying to create habits and routines we didn't have, but want to have on a daily basis. Every day we have to be committed. It's about the way players play, rest, recover, eat and sleep. They are fit and competing until the last minute. I'm proud - we've already played 28 games. We're always competing, always competing."

West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini speaking to Match of the Day: "We wanted to go and win two games in a row. We didn't play a bad game, but they scored on a set-piece. We had an option to score through Snodgrass but didn't do it. I said before that when we didn't win games it was down to conceding at set-pieces. We never thought before this game we were going to win just because we beat Chelsea.  "We must now try to win our home game against Arsenal."

Wolves on a roll - stats

Wolves have won three league matches in a row against West Ham for the first time. West Ham have now won just one of their last nine Premier League matches, conceding 18 goals across those games (D2 L6).  Wolves have scored in each of their last 10 Premier League games at Molineux - their best period in the top flight since February 2004 (also 10 in a row). Wolves have lost just one of their last 15 home Premier League games (W8 D6 L1), a 5-2 defeat by Chelsea in September. Moutinho has assisted 12 goals in the Premier League - only Matt Jarvis has provided more assists for Wolves (13).

What's next?  Wolves are at Brighton on Sunday (16:30 GMT) and West Ham host Arsenal on Monday (20:00 GMT).

Wolves

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker 16Coady 27Saïss 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto 37Traoré sub Bennettat 89'

9Jiménez sub Cutrone at 84' 18JotaBooked at 30mins sub Neto at 72' Substitutes 5Bennett 7Neto 10Cutrone 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 49Kilman 56Ashley-Seal

West Ham

25Martin 24Fredericks 4Balbuena 21Ogbonna 3CresswellBooked at 78mins 11Snodgrass sub Yarmolenkoat 62' 16Noble sub Hollandat 71' 41RiceBooked at 67mins 18Fornals *8Felipe Anderson 22Haller sub Ajetiat 80' Substitutes 5Zabaleta 7Yarmolenko 13Jiménez 15C Sánchez 26Masuaku 27Ajeti 37Holland

Referee: Andre Marriner Attendance: 31,217

        Wolves West Ham

Possession  49% 51%

Shots       13   6

Shots on Tgt 7   3

Corners      5   4

Fouls        8   9

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, West Ham United 0.

Full Time 90'+4' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, West Ham United 0.

90'+3' Foul by Pedro Neto (WW). 90'+3' Nathan Holland (WHU) wins a free kick on the left wing. 90'+2' Attempt blocked. Andriy Yarmolenko (WHU) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Felipe Anderson with a through ball. 90'+1' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 90'+1' Foul by Albian Ajeti (WHU). Sub, 89' Sub, (WW) Ryan Bennett replaces Adama Traoré. 89' Pedro Neto (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 89' Foul by Felipe Anderson (WHU). 88' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW).  88' Aaron Cresswell (WHU) wins a free kick in the defensive half.

Goal! 86'

Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, West Ham United 0. Patrick Cutrone (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Pedro Neto.

84' Offside, (WW) Matt Doherty tries a through ball, but Patrick Cutrone is caught offside. Sub,  84'

Sub,,  (WW) Patrick Cutrone replaces Raúl Jiménez. 82' Attempt missed. Aaron Cresswell (WHU) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right. Assisted by Felipe Anderson. 81' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 81' Angelo Ogbonna (WHU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Sub,  80' Sub,,  (WHU) Albian Ajeti replaces Sébastien Haller. 79' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a set piece situation. Booking 78' Aaron Cresswell (WHU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 78' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 78' Foul by Aaron Cresswell (WHU). 73' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Adama Traoré. sub,  72' Sub,,  (WW) Pedro Neto replaces Diogo Jota.  Sub,  71' Sub,,  (WHU) Nathan Holland replaces Mark Noble. Booking  67' Declan Rice (WHU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 67' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 67' Foul by Declan Rice (WHU). 64' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box misses to the right. Assisted by João Moutinho with a through ball following a fast break. 64' Attempt missed. Romain Saïss (WW) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the right. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez following a corner. 63' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Aaron Cresswell. Sub,   62' Sub,,  (WHU) Andriy Yarmolenko replaces Robert Snodgrass because of an injury. 60' Attempt saved. Robert Snodgrass (WHU) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Pablo Fornals. 58' Attempt missed. Declan Rice (WHU) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the right. 57' Attempt saved. Jonny (WW) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 55' Offside, (WHU) Felipe Anderson tries a through ball, but Pablo Fornals is caught offside. 54' Attempt missed. Leander Dendoncker (WW) header from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Jonny with a cross following a corner. 53' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Aaron Cresswell. 51' Foul by Conor Coady (WW). 51'

Sébastien Haller (WHU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 49' Romain Saïss (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 49' Foul by Robert Snodgrass (WHU). 47' Offside, (WHU) David Martin tries a through ball, but Robert Snodgrass is caught offside. 47' Attempt saved. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. 46' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 46' Foul by Aaron Cresswell (WHU).

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, West Ham United 0.

First Half

        Wolves  West Ham

Possession 54%  46%

Sho         5    2

Shots on Tgt 3   2

Corners     3    4

Fouls       4    2

Half Time 45'+3' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, West Ham United 0.

44' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 44' Foul by Angelo Ogbonna (WHU). 40' Offside, (WW) Leander Dendoncker tries a through ball, but Raúl Jiménez is caught offside. 37' Attempt missed. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. Assisted by Romain Saïss. 36' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Aaron Cresswell. 36' Attempt saved. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Romain Saïss. 33' João Moutinho (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 33' Foul by Mark Noble (WHU). 32' Corner, (WHU) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 32' Attempt saved. Pablo Fornals (WHU) right footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Felipe Anderson. Booking 30' Diogo Jota (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 30' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 30' Robert Snodgrass (WHU) wins a free kick on the right  wing. 29' Hand ball by Romain Saïss (WW). 28' Attempt saved. Declan Rice (WHU) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Robert Snodgrass with a cross. 28' Corner, (WHU) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 25' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). 25' Robert Snodgrass (WHU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 25' Offside, (WHU) Fabián Balbuena tries a through ball, but Pablo Fornals is caught offside. Goal!

23' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, West Ham United 0. Leander Dendoncker (WW) right footed shot from very close range to the bottom left corner. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross following a corner.

22' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Felipe Anderson. 22' Corner, (WW) Conceded by David Martin. 22' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Diogo Jota with a cross. 15' Corner, (WHU) Conceded by Leander Dendoncker. 12' Hand ball by Robert Snodgrass (WHU). 12' Attempt missed. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 10' Corner, (WHU) Conceded by Conor Coady. 7' Offside, (WW) Matt Doherty tries a through ball, but Raúl Jiménez is caught offside. 1' Felipe Anderson (WHU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 1' Foul by João Moutinho (WW). Kick Off First Half begins.

Wolves forward Raul Jimenez has either scored or assisted a goal in nine of his past 10 games in all competitions

TEAM NEWS

Wolves are likely to recall defender Romain Saiss, who was banned for Sunday's game against Sheffield United.  Ryan Bennett is again doubtful due to a groin problem, while Morgan Gibbs-White is out with an ongoing back issue.  West Ham are expected to stick with David Martin in goal following his impressive debut at Chelsea.  Jack Wilshere and Michail Antonio both face fitness tests but Issa Diop is available after suspension, while Sebastien Haller might be recalled.

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

@alistairmann01: While some teams in the Europa League have seen their domestic form suffer in recent years, Wolves have been able to find the balance and can still boast a healthy league position in addition to qualification to the knockout stage in Europe. Their steely resolve has been typified by the number of occasions on which they have successfully chased a game in which they've fallen behind - Sunday's draw with Sheffield United being the latest example.  West Ham's victory at Chelsea brought a seven-game winless run to an end; the challenge now will be to demonstrate whether that improved performance has signified a genuine upturn in form.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo on speculation linking him with Arsenal: "I still have a contract, for me it's more important that I focus on what I have to do today. I'm focused on the game, it's the most important moment. West Ham is our present. I live hour-by-hour. I know what I have to do next and I still have a lot of work to do."

West Ham United manager Manuel Pellegrini: "The last season they [Wolves] did very well and this one they have repeated. There is no doubt it's a tough game, away or at home, they have the same players, they don't have many injured players but - as with any other game - we need to be aggressive and have concentration."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Wolves are on a very good run and have not lost any of their past nine Premier League games - I would be surprised if they don't make that 10. Prediction: 2-0

David Martin became the second oldest goalkeeper to keep a PL clean sheet on his debut last Saturday

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head - Wolves won both meetings last season - they've never beaten West Ham in three consecutive league games. West Ham have won just one of their last seven away league games against Wolves (D2, L4).

Wolverhampton Wanderers are unbeaten in nine Premier League matches (W4, D5) - the last time they went 10 top-flight matches without defeat was in January 1972. Twenty points is their highest tally after 14 games of a top-flight season since 1979-80. Wolves have lost just one of their last 10 Premier League matches in December (W4, D5). They have scored in all 13 league games since a goalless draw in the opening day fixture at Leicester. They have drawn an unrivalled 17 Premier League matches since the start of last season. Wolves have lost only two of the nine league games when conceding first, drawing the other seven. Raul Jimenez has been involved in 12 goals in his last 10 league appearances, with seven goals and five assists.

West Ham United Victory at Chelsea on Saturday ended West Ham's seven-game winless run. West Ham have won 15 away points from the last 27 available (W4, D3, L2) - 11 of those came against sides who started the day in the top 10. They are winless in their last nine Premier League away games played on a Wednesday (D2, L7) - they have failed to score in six of those games, including the last five.

Sebastien Haller scored three goals in his first three league games this term but has scored only once in his subsequent 10 appearances.

David Martin became the second oldest goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet on his Premier League debut last weekend (33 years, 312 days), behind only Bernard Lama, also of West Ham.

14 Sunday 1 Dec November 2019 H Sheffield Utd 14:00 Molineux  D1-1

The Doc paid tribute to Beik Afob’s daughter Amora who sadly died  2 years old - Benik Shoots v Owls

14 WW 1 Doherty (64') Sheffield United 1 Mousset (2')

HT 0-1

Wolves remain sixth in the Premier League after Matt Doherty's equaliser against Sheffield United extended their unbeaten run to nine games.  Nuno Espirito Santo's side were second best until Doherty headed in Raul Jimenez's cross after 64 minutes.  But they finished the game stronger as the Blades, who were fortunate not to have George Baldock sent off, hung on to extend their unbeaten run to six games.  It was a sharp contrast from earlier in the match as the visitors took the lead after 63 seconds. Lys Mousset took a touch from Baldock's right-wing cross before firing in his fifth goal of the season. But Chris Wilder's team paid for costly misses by David McGoldrick early in the second half when they were in the ascendancy.  Sheffield United, who have not lost away in the league since January, remain a place below Wolves in seventh.

Chris Wilder delighted with Blades away form - Mousset underlines value to Blades  Wilder would have been pleased his side continued their impressive start to the season, especially as Baldock rode his luck by avoiding a second yellow when he fouled Diogo Jota with 10 minutes left.  But it was a game where Mousset's value was underlined once again, especially as McGoldrick showed why he has not scored this season. Mousset did not have much Premier League pedigree when he was at former club Bournemouth, scoring only five goals during three seasons after signing from French side Le Havre for about £5m in 2015.  But the 23-year-old, who was captured by the Blades for a then-club record £10m in July, has proven a key player for Wilder's side by adding crucial goals to the team's defensive solidity. Given he has scored five goals and has three assists, while his fellow strikers have struggled, the Blades' lofty league position would be far inferior without him. He wasted little time in making his mark at Molineux and set up John Fleck for what should have been a second after 38 minutes when he nutmegged Leander Dendoncker, but the Blades midfielder's low shot was saved by Rui Patricio. Although McGoldrick was full of endeavour, he toiled in front of goal. The Republic of Ireland international had two chances to double the lead when the Blades were well on top after the break. Both times he could not beat Wolves keeper Patricio.

It proved costly when Doherty headed in at the back post minutes later, with McGoldrick failing to track his runner. He was eventually substituted to be replaced by Oli McBurnie, who had a late chance to win it when he headed over, but Wilder will not mind too much about McGoldrick's form while his team are still picking up points.

Adama Traore was a threat down Wolves' right side, but could not set up a goal Wolves resilience impresses again The draw meant that Wolves matched a top-flight unbeaten run last set by the club in 1973. More pleasing for Nuno will be the way his side reacted to going behind, especially as they played against Braga in Portugal in the Europa League on Thursday. This was their 27th game of the season and their resilience in combining both domestic and European form after a stuttering start to the campaign has been impressive. They looked rusty as the visitors took the lead early on but once Jimenez tested Dean Henderson with a header after 18 minutes, they found their feet, and Adama Traore was a dangerous outlet down the right as he outmuscled Enda Stevens on several occasions. Had there been better composure from Sheffield United's forwards, the hosts may not have been able to respond, yet Doherty's goal seemed to provide a catalyst. It was an emotional goal as he kissed his black armband in tribute to former Wolves team-mate Benik Afobe, who has lost his two-year-old daughter. Wolves, who handed a first Premier League start to defender Max Kilman, making him the first former England futsal player to play a full game in the top flight, pressed for a winner. However, Sheffield United's desperate defending kept clear-cut chances at a premium as the scores remained level.

Man of the match - Lys Mousset who has been directly involved in eight of Sheffield United's last 11 Premier League goals (five goals, three assists).

'It meant a lot for Doherty to score' - manager reaction Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: "It's very demanding on the players but it is a good challenge. We must use it to grow and improve as a team. We don't have time to practice, we rest and we repeat. I'm very proud. The draw was well deserved. "It means a lot for [Matt] Doherty to score today - he had some bad news about a dear friend of his. It was a bad moment in his life so I wish him well. It meant a lot for him and it meant a lot for us as a team."

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder: "We started both halves terrifically. We had plenty of chances and we should have scored more than one. We knew they'd fight back after we went ahead because of the fight they have as a team. This is always a tough place to come so I'm delighted we've kept our away record going. Lys Mousset showed he can finish against Man Utd and he showed it again today. His partnership with David McGoldrick is going brilliant, too. We're doing a lot of things right at the moment - both with and without the ball. We were disappointed with their goal but I'm delighted with how we adapted our game plan."

Blades continue fine away form - the best stats - Sheffield United are the first newly promoted side to remain unbeaten in their first seven top-flight away games since Blackburn in 1992-93 (W1 D6). Lys Mousset's goal in the second minute is Sheffield United's second earliest goal scored in a Premier League match, behind only Dane Whitehouse's first-minute opener against Everton in August 1993. Matt Doherty scored in back-to-back games in all competitions for Wolves for the first time since December 2016. Raul Jimenez has been directly involved in 21 goals in 25 appearances in all competitions this season (15 goals, 6 assists) - the most of any Premier League player.

What's next? - Wolves host West Ham on Wednesday (kick-off 19:30 GMT) while Sheffield United entertain Newcastle United on Thursday (19:30).

Wolves pic Mark Feehan

11Rui Patrício 32Dendoncker booked  3' 16Coady 49Kilman 2Doherty 8Neves 28João Moutinho 19Castro Otto 37Traoré 9Jiménez 18Jota Substitutes 4Vallejo 7Neto 10Cutrone 21Ruddy 29Vinagre 54Otasowie 68Cundle

Sheff Utd

1Henderson 6Basham  12Egan booked  90' 5O'Connell booked  63' 2Baldock booked  54' 7Lundstram sub Freemanat 90+1' 16Norwood 4Fleck  booked  42' 3Stevens booked  15' 22Mousset sub Robinsonat 86' 17McGoldrick sub McBurnieat 73' Substitutes 8Freeman 9McBurnie 10Sharp 11Robinson 15Jagielka 25Moore 27Besic

Referee: David Coote Attendance: 31,642

       Wolves Sheff Utd

Possession 60% 40%

Shots      13   9

Shots on Tgt 3  4

Corners     7   2

Fouls      12  18

Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Sheffield United 1.

Full Time 90'+4' Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Sheffield United 1.

90'+4' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 90'+4' Foul by Luke Freeman (SU). 90'+3'

Attempt missed. Oliver McBurnie (SU) header from the right side of the six yard box is just a bit too high. Assisted by Enda Stevens with a cross. 90'+1' Sub,  (SU) Luke Freeman replaces John Lundstram. 90'+1' Attempt missed. João Moutinho (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right following a set piece situation. 90'+1' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) right footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by Jonny. Booking 90' John Egan (SU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 90' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 90' Foul by John Egan (SU). 89' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Chris Basham. 88' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Jack O'Connell. 87' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Adama Traoré. 86' VAR Decision: No card change John Fleck (SU). 86' Sub,  (SU) Callum Robinson replaces Lys Mousset. 83' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 83' Foul by Oliver Norwood (SU). 80' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 80' Foul by George Baldock (SU). 79' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Oliver McBurnie. 79' Attempt blocked. Jonny (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho. 78' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Chris Basham. 77' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 77' Chris Basham (SU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 73'  Sub,  (SU) Oliver McBurnie replaces David McGoldrick. 71' Foul by Conor Coady (WW). 71' Lys Mousset (SU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 69' Attempt missed. David McGoldrick (SU) header from the centre of the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Oliver Norwood with a cross following a set piece situation.  68' Foul by Max Kilman (WW). 68' John Lundstram (SU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 67' VAR Decision: No Penalty Wolverhampton Wanderers. 67' Offside, (WW) Max Kilman tries a through ball, but Raúl Jiménez is caught offside. 66' Leander Dendoncker (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 66' Foul by Enda Stevens (SU). 65' Foul by Diogo Jota (WW). 65' George Baldock (SU) wins a free kick on the right wing. Goal!

64' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 1, Sheffield United 1. Matt Doherty (WW) header from the left side of the six yard box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez with a cross.

Booking 63' Jack O'Connell (SU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 63' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 63' Foul by Jack O'Connell (SU). 62' Jonny (WW) wins a free kick on the left wing. 62' Foul by David McGoldrick (SU). 58' Offside, (SU) David McGoldrick tries a through ball, but Chris Basham is caught offside. 56' Dangerous play by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 56' Dean Henderson (SU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 56' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 56' Foul by Jack O'Connell (SU).  Booking 54' George Baldock (SU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 54' Diogo Jota (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 54' Foul by George Baldock (SU). 53' Attempt missed. Lys Mousset (SU) right footed shot from the right side of the box misses to the right. Assisted by John Fleck following a fast break. 52' Attempt saved. David McGoldrick (SU) left footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by John Fleck with a through ball. 51' Offside, (SU) George Baldock tries a through ball, but John Lundstram is caught offside. 50' Attempt saved. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Matt Doherty. 48' Attempt blocked. David McGoldrick (SU) right footed shot from outside the box  is blocked. 48' Foul by Rúben Neves (WW). 48' John Lundstram (SU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 47' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 47' Foul by John Lundstram (SU). 46' Attempt saved. David McGoldrick (SU) left footed shot from a difficult angle on the left is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Lys Mousset.

Second Half begins Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Sheffield United 1.

Half Time

45'+3' First Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Sheffield United 1.

45'+2' Hand ball by David McGoldrick (SU). 45'+1' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 45'+1' Enda Stevens (SU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 45' Attempt missed. Diogo Jota (WW) left footed shot from the left side of the box misses to the right. Booking 42' John Fleck (SU) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 42' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 42' Foul by John Fleck (SU). 41' Attempt missed. Enda Stevens (SU) left footed shot from the left side of the box is too high. 39' Attempt missed. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. Assisted by Raúl Jiménez. 38' Corner, (SU) Conceded by Rui Patrício. 38' Attempt saved. John Fleck (SU) left footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Lys Mousset. 35' VAR Decision: No Penalty Wolverhampton Wanderers. 34' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from very close range is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 34' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Jack O'Connell. 32' Raúl Jiménez (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 32' Foul by John Egan (SU). 27' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 27' Foul by John Fleck (SU). 23' Offside, (SU) John Lundstram tries a through ball, but George Baldock is caught offside. 22' Foul by Jonny (WW). 22' John Lundstram (SU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 22' Attempt blocked. Rúben Neves (WW) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. 20' Enda Stevens (SU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 20' Foul by Adama Traoré (WW). 18' Foul by Lys Mousset (SU). 18' Rui Patrício (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 18' Corner, (SU) Conceded by Matt Doherty. Booking 15' Enda Stevens (SU) is shown the  yellow card for a bad foul. 15' Foul by Enda Stevens (SU). 15' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick on the right wing. 14' Attempt blocked. Leander Dendoncker (WW) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. 14' Attempt blocked. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by João Moutinho with a cross. 13' Corner, (WW) Conceded by Dean Henderson. 13' Attempt saved. Raúl Jiménez (WW) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top right corner. 10' Hand ball by David McGoldrick (SU). 7'

Corner, (WW) Conceded by John Egan. 6' Foul by Lys Mousset (SU). 6' Adama Traoré (WW) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 6' George Baldock (SU) wins a free kick in the defensive half. 6' Foul by Raúl Jiménez (WW). 5' George Baldock (SU) wins a free kick on the right wing. 5' Foul by Max Kilman (WW). Booking 3' Leander Dendoncker (WW) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. 3' Lys Mousset (SU) wins a free kick in the attacking half. 3' Foul by Leander Dendoncker (WW). Goal!  2' Goal! Wolverhampton Wanderers 0, Sheffield United 1. Lys Mousset (SU) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner. Assisted by George Baldock with a cross.

Kick Off First Half begins.

TEAM NEWS

Romain Saiss is suspended for Wolves after accumulating five yellow cards.  He could be replaced by Ryan Bennett, who will be assessed after missing the last two league and cup games with a groin injury. Sheffield United striker Lys Mousset was forced off with a tight hamstring last weekend but is fit to play. John Egan returns following a head injury, while Dean Henderson is back after being ineligible to face parent club Manchester United last weekend.

Wolves through to last 32 of Europa League

MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES

Martin Fisher: I have a warm glow about this game and that's not because my winter intake of Ready Brek has begun (ask your parents)... I just have a real affection for these clubs at the moment.  Undaunted by the big boys, their respective styles are entertaining AND effective. Impressive on their return to the Premier League last season, Wolves have kicked on and embraced the challenge of European football too.  Sheffield United may be bereft of star names but they play with a togetherness that every supporter yearns to see from their team. It's almost as if their manager is a fan...Bring it on.

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Wolves head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, speaking after Thursday's draw with Braga: "It was our 26th game, we started very early in the season, but the balance has been good. We are trying to develop and improve - and we don't have limits. We always keep going."

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder: "Nuno [Espirito Santo] has done a fantastic job at Wolves. As much as the investment and the outstanding players that they have got, you've still got to win games of football. I think that comes down to the manager and what he instils in the players and the way they play.  I am a great admirer of him."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Sheffield United have been a breath of fresh air this season and they are great to watch.  Wolves, however, have surprised me. I thought they would struggle with having the Premier League and Europa League but they are doing really well. Prediction: 2-0

Raul Jimenez has scored seven times in his last eight league and cup appearances

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head = The sides last met in the top flight in 1975-76, when Wolves won 5-1 at home and 4-1 away. Both teams were relegated at the end of the season.  Sheffield United have won just one of their last seven league games against Wolves (D2, L4), and only one of their last 12 at Molineux (D5, L6).

Wolverhampton Wanderers could go nine games unbeaten in the top flight for the first time since a similar streak in 1973.

They have scored in 12 successive league games for the first time - prior to the weekend that total was exceeded only by Liverpool (22 matches).  Wolves' tally of 19 points is their highest at this stage of a top-flight season since 1979, adjusting to three points for a win. Raul Jimenez can become the second Wolves player to score in four consecutive Premier League games, emulating Henri Camara, who netted in five successive matches in 2004.

Sheffield United and Liverpool are the only sides yet to lose away from home in the top flight this season.  The Blades have drawn six Premier League games in 2019-20, a tally exceeded only by Wolves.  If they avoid defeat on Sunday, United will be unbeaten in seven league games - their best top-flight run since an eight-match sequence in March and April 1994.  They have not lost any of their last 61 league and cup matches by more than a single-goal margin.  Chris Wilder is the first manager to remain unbeaten in his first six Premier League away games since Luiz Felipe Scolari with Chelsea in 2008.

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