Former Wolves midfielder Dave Edwards has urged Wolves to sign a new striker this summer, admitting it was ‘a shame to see’ Raul Jimenez struggle again on Saturday.
The Mexico international was back in the starting XI against Chelsea on Saturday.
He had been named as a substitute in the previous game against Brighton, but came on at half-time in that game to replace Fabio Silva.
In west London, Jimenez was looking to add to his tally of six Premier league goals this season.
But it was another tough afternoon for the 30-year-old, who only had two shots in the game, both of which were off target. He also completed just 10/16 (63%) passes (via Sofascore).
In attendance in the away end was Edwards, who was pained to see another performance from Jimenez that lacked influence.
He wrote in his latest Express & Star column: “Again I felt Raul Jimenez was really off it. It was a shame to see. His touch wasn’t there, he gave the ball away on numerous occasions, I was surprised he didn’t go off.
“It’s an area Wolves need to really strengthen. They have to go all out to get a striker in. Fabio Silva isn’t ready, he could do with a loan for a season.
“Raul’s had enough games now, it must be such a hard thing to come back from.
“Another striker could help take pressure off him, but for Wolves to kick on they need a fit and firing striker, I can’t see it being Raul. I really hope I’m wrong.”
It has now been two months since Jimenez last scored for Wolves.
Raul Jimenez struggles must force Wolves’ hand this summer
No one was expecting Jimenez to come back and rip up the Premier League this season after what happened to him.
He is lucky to be alive, and the star has given his best during what has been a tricky season.
Wolves undoubtedly do need to sign a new striker this summer.
Not necessarily to replace £30 million star Jimenez, but to come in and perhaps take the pressure off as Edwards suggests.
Ultimately, Wolves will likely narrowly miss out on European football this season due to having not been clinical enough in the final third.
If Wanderers are to improve next season, they will need a real killer in front of goal.