Wolves have a real chance of getting their first win of the season against West Ham following inspiring displays against teams with much more quality than Saturday’s opponents.
The Hammers have a clear weakness that Wolves can exploit, but that can only be done through the right team selection.
Edwards has received a big injury boost before the game, but additionally, the returning Andre does not offer an easy decision, as you would expect.
The Wanderers played well without the midfielder, and that will certainly give the head coach a lot to think about heading into the match.
Here is our predicted XI to take on West Ham.
Santiago Bueno is expected to be back, but if you could pick just one other player to be available from this list, who would it be?
Rodrigo Gomes is also still ruled out.
Defence
Jose Sa did not do much wrong against Manchester United and will continue to remain between the sticks.
In the back five, Hugo Bueno remains out on the left, while Matt Doherty shifts from central defence over to right wing-back.
The Irishman will captain Wolves, and his experience is needed at the back. Jackson Tchatchoua may feel unfortunate to miss out, but with the Old Gold needing leaders, it seems like the right call.
Santiago Bueno returns from his slight knock and partners both Ladislav Krejci and Yerson Mosquera.
Midfield
Andre’s return from suspension will cause Rob Edwards to have some headaches. After a strong performance against Manchester United without him, does he stick or twist?
We believe Andre will come back into the side, with Jhon Arias also continuing in that newfound number eight role he seemed to excel in. Edwards praised the Colombian for his efforts on Tuesday.
Joao Gomes will not be a surprise inclusion, as the Brazilian is one of the Wanderers’ highest-quality players.
Attack
Up front, Mateus Mane makes the jump from midfield to attack, despite impressing in a deeper role at Old Trafford.
With speculation surrounding Jorgen Strand Larsen’s future, he remains on the bench, and Tolu Arokodare continues to lead the line.
Hwang Hee-chan drops out of the line-up.
Agree with our starting XI to face West Ham?
If not, what changes would you make?
Overall, that is two changes for Rob Edwards from the team that secured a draw against Man United.
- Santiago Bueno in, Jackson Tchatchoua out
- Andre in, Hwang Hee-chan out
When it comes to Wolves fans, they are confident about picking up a win, and with this line-up, they would certainly have a chance.
Andre and Joao Gomes as a midfield two does not offer the right balance, but with an attack-minded third midfielder, it can open a lot of spaces.
Let’s hope 2026 starts off in the best possible way, with three big points.
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