Former Wolves full-back Andy Thompson has praised Adama Traore for the impact he made against Southampton on Saturday – and suggested Julen Lopetegui has put his arm around the player.
Wolves picked up three massive points against the Saints to follow up the 3-0 win over Liverpool.
After falling behind to a Carlos Alcaraz goal, Wolves rallied in the second-half, with Traore first forcing an own goal from Jan Bednarek.
Joao Gomes then scored the winner late on to ensure an absolute dream debut.
The introduction of Traore really helped Wolves at St. Mary’s Stadium.
The star replaced Joao Moutinho, and took up his usual position on the right wing.
He really got at Southampton, and of course he made a decisive contribution in forcing the equaliser.
Traore’s form has generally picked up since Lopetegui came in. And Thompson has suggested Lopetegui has got his arm around his shoulder, rather than adopting a tough love approach.
He said on Matchday Live (via Wolves official): “You get a feel-good factor from the coaching staff, the players coming into the club, and it goes a long way.
“Being a manager, it’s not just about telling players off. It’s about being able to put an arm around a player and tell him he’s wanted.
“Everybody’s different, some need a telling off, but this manager is experienced. He’s managed the highest you can, he knows what he needs to do to get things out of his players. When he’s come on, he’s made a difference.
Julen Lopetegui has clearly put his arm around Adama Traore at Wolves
It very much seems as though Lopetegui has really been positive with Traore.
It would be no surprise if he’s told him how good he is, and what a difference he can make to this team.
Traore has appeared more confident on the whole since Lopetegui came in.
And he’s definitely appeared happier out on the pitch. He looks like he really wants to impress this manager.
He made a great impact against Southampton. And it was definitely a huge positive Wolves were able to keep him beyond January.
Saturday just went to show he can be worth at least a few crucial points to Wolves.