Wolves return to action in the FA Cup on Wednesday evening, as Gary O’Neil’s side prepares to welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to Molineux in the fifth round of the tournament.
After beating Sheffield United on Sunday, Wolves will need to turn their attention quickly to their next challenge, as Gary O’Neil’s squad return to the FA Cup.
In the last round, the Old Gold knocked their bitter rivals West Bromwich Albion out at The Hawthorns, on a day that represented just how fierce an English derby can get.
Despite the theatrics off the pitch, Wolves progressed into the next round, with an opponent of higher calibre now awaiting them in the form of Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton.
O’Neil’s squad aren’t reported to have any new injury concerns following Sunday’s victory over Sheffield United although, the boss could be tempted to rotate his starting lineup.
Here’s our Wolves predicted lineup to face Brighton in the FA Cup fifth round…
Wolves predicted lineup against Brighton
Jose Sa
It’s almost certain that O’Neil will start his firm number one, Jose Sa, in goal. The goalkeeper put in a good performance against the Blades to claim the clean sheet.
Toti Gomes
At present, it would be difficult for the manager to not field his usual defensive trio, with Toti Gomes being one of the three.
Craig Dawson
Joining Toti would be Craig Dawson, who was “very solid” against Sheffield United on Sunday and will surely be called upon in the FA Cup to limit the threat that Brighton pose going forward.
Max Kilman
To complete the defensive trio is Max Kilman, the Wolves skipper. The 26-year-old looked shaky at times against the Blades but will be eager to put in a solid performance against Brighton.
Rayan Ait-Nouri
In the last round, O’Neil opted to start Matt Doherty ahead of Rayan Ait-Nouri to rotate his squad. Considering that Wolves will face a team as threatening as Brighton in the fifth round, the boss could be tempted to field his strongest asset at left wing-back.
Joao Gomes
Like Ait-Nouri, Joao Gomes didn’t feature against West Brom, although his omission was due to injury. The Brazilian has been in searing form of late which will surely prompt the manager to start him on Wednesday evening.
Mario Lemina
There could be some debate as to whether O’Neil will rotate in his midfield between Mario Lemina and Tommy Doyle however, like Gomes, Lemina has been crucial to the Old Gold’s midfield this campaign.
Nelson Semedo
At right wing-back will surely be Nelson Semedo, who was impressive against Sheffield United with his forward play and defensive efforts.
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde
In attack, the boss could hand Pablo Sarabia a rest in order to unleash Jean-Ricner Bellegarde in his favoured position. The opportunity could allow the Frenchman the chance to impress the manager, who recently requested more from the summer arrival.
Pedro Neto
It would be difficult for Wolves to not start with Pedro Neto, who has been one of the squad’s shining lights this season. The winger will hope to build on his goal against West Brom in the last round.
Hwang Hee-chan
To lead the line is Hwang Hee-chan who will hope to get back amongst the goals for the first time in 2024, with his form in the first half of the season a huge help for Wolves.