Undoubtedly, Raul Jimenez has a pretty rock-solid position as Wolves’ striker. The Mexican number nine is one of the first names on the team-sheet, and rightly so, scoring 11 so far this season.
However, there is need for rotation. Our tough schedule includes League, European and FA Cup competition over the next few months.
With that in mind, Nuno should be considering our homegrown talents, such as the exciting Benny Ashley-Seal.
On fire
Though Wolves fans will likely know the name, he has so far been given little opportunity to impress in the first-team. His first full appearance came in last season’s Carabao Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday. In that game the youngster unsuccessfully tried to take a penalty off Helder Costa.
(Photo by Sam Bagnall – AMA/Getty Images)
After a loan spell in Portugal to end the year, Ashley-Seal has been on fire to start the season with the U-23’s. The 20 year-old has eight goals in a five game period, impressing fans along the way.
First-team ready?
Surprisingly, despite Nuno ringing the changes for the cup defeat to Villa, Ashley-Seal only made an appearance in the 68th minute. Whilst Nuno did give youth a chance, perhaps this would have been the perfect stage for Ashley-Seal to make his mark.
(Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)
Before this game, the youngster had been rewarded with a place on the bench against Newcastle. But he is still yet to receive meaningful game time with the first-team squad.
Cutrone misfiring
Though I’m not one to criticise players who give their all for the team, the £16m man from Milan has been unimpressive so far.
With just two goals so far, Patrick Cutrone has yet to make the impact we thought he would. Therefore, adding Ashley-Seal into the mix is likely to have a huge benefit to the squad.
(Photo by Chloe Knott – Danehouse/Getty Images)
Not only would this ease the load on Jimenez, allowing him to rest in less-important games, but it could also give Cutrone extra competition. Meanwhile, the exciting Ashley-Seal would get valuable first-team minutes, helping him transition from youth to senior football.
Should we wrap up Europa qualification with time to spare, this would be a perfect chance to introduce Wolves’ future marksman. The sky really is the limit for this kid, and he deserves a chance.