Wolves’ Premier League status is in jeopardy with two statistics highlighting the root of the problem.
With the international break now well underway, Gary O’Neil now has some breathing room to try and repair Wolves’ poor start.
The Wolves manager has been under pressure after it was reported a defeat against Southampton could see O’Neil sacked.
Yet, after five points out of their last three games, many Wolves fans still want to see O’Neil gone, with the club riddled with many issues.
One of the biggest weaknesses Wolves currently have is their defence but how badly the Old Gold has been performing in this position has now been highlighted through key statistics.
xG table shows the route of Wolves’ problems this season
So far this season, it is clear to see what Wolves’ issues are. The Old Gold backline has been nothing short of horrendous overall with the club conceding the most goals in the Premier League.
In comparison, the attacking outlet the squad can produce is extremely impressive. As it stands, they have netted 16 times in the league, more than fifth-placed Nottingham Forest.
This contrast has never become more apparent when you look at the club’s xG. According to WhoScored, Wolves are the biggest underperformers for xG against.
The Old Gold should have conceded 22.41 goals but in fact, have let in 27 – a 4.59 difference.
Yet, attacking-wise the club are sensational. Wolves were only expected to have scored 12.88 goals but have netted 16 times. This 3.12 difference is the highest in the division for attacking over-performance.
Gary O’Neil’s job depends on fixing Wolves’ defensive issues
Wolves’ defensive issues have now been a long-term problem and must be addressed as soon as possible if the club wishes to stay in the Premier League.
When the attack is overperforming so comfortably but the club still finds itself in the relegation zone, the issue Wolves face becomes alarming.
The contrasting abilities of the squad are unstainable, and if they cannot be fixed, O’Neil will likely be without a job.
Hopefully, over the international break, the manager will be able to resolve these issues and pull Wolves up the table.