Adama Traore says he would love to start for Wolves, but respects Julen Lopetegui’s decision when he names him as a substitute.
Traore came in for praise at the weekend after scoring the winner against Tottenham Hotspur.
Wanderers edged out Spurs 1-0 at Molineux, with Traore hitting a superb goal towards the end of the second-half.
He had come on at half-time, something he’s done on several occasions now this season.
He’s been fairly involved for Wolves since Julen Lopetegui, featuring in every single game under the Spaniard in some capacity.
But he’s actually only made two Premier League starts under the 56-year-old.
But given the player’s qualities, he rather suits coming into games from the bench.
Speaking about his role as an impact substitute, Traore said (Express & Star): “That is not my decision. What I can control is when I’m on the pitch, make an impact and try to help the team. That’s what I do.
“After, if I’m on the bench or not, this is the decision of the gaffer, I respect the gaffer. He has tried to improve me as a player. Whatever minutes the team needs me to help, I will be there.
“Every player wants to start, of course, there are no players in the world who don’t want to start.
“But that doesn’t mean when I do come on the pitch that I’m not going to give 100 percent to the team.
“This is the gaffer’s decision. All I do is improve every day and when the gaffer needs me, make an impact.”
A great attitude from Adama Traore as he comments on substitute role at Wolves
This is a very professional mindset from Traore and he deserves credit.
It can be frustrating for players to be named on the bench a lot. But he is clearly all about the team and is ready to try and make an impact.
Ultimately, he may not stay at Molineux as a result of not being a regular starter.
But Lopetegui’s management of the player has been excellent, and he has used the winger to great effect.
It would be a great shame to see him go. But it is understandable that Traore would want to leave in search of becoming a regular starter somewhere else