Pedro Lima made his competitive debut for Wolves in last night’s 2-0 win over Burnley in the Carabao Cup.
The Brazilian started at right-back, replacing Matt Doherty who had been Gary O’Neil‘s choice for the first two Premier League games against Arsenal and Chelsea.
Lima, an £8.5 million signing from Sport Recife earlier this summer, had apparently ‘been training like a madman’ recently according to goalkeeper Tom King, and last night he clearly relished being given an opportunity.
After almost scoring early on, Lima provided a brilliant cross for Goncalo Guedes to open the scoring at Molineux.
The youngster was a constant outlet for Wolves, and his pace caused problems for Burnley. He got forward often, but did not shirk his defensive responsibilities.
After the game, O’Neil gave his thoughts about the teenager’s debut.
Pedro Lima’s ‘athleticism and his power for his age is incredible’
There was always a good chance of Lima starting against Burnley.
Nelson Semedo was still suspended, and Doherty was perhaps in need of being rotated after playing the first two Premier League games.
Lima had impressed for Wolves in pre-season, and fans have been hoping to see him in competitive action.
O’Neil decided to hand him his first chance last night, and the Brazilian did not let his manager down.
Fans went wild for Lima’s great display at Molineux. O’Neil was a little more measured when he gave his verdict after the game, which was perhaps understandable given he’s already called for patience over the youngster.
He said (via Wolves official): “I thought he did OK, yeah. He showed that his athleticism and his power for his age is incredible. He’s got a lot of work still to do on some technical aspects. He’s working hard on his English, so he understands a bit better. He’s got the potential to be a big talent and be able to do well at Premier League level.
“We just need to help him keep moving forward and keep progressing to get him there as quickly as possible. It’s still a big ask for him at this moment, but it was a good game for him. It was a game where we were in control. The team structure was good. There was a clear understanding out there that was able to help him. He showed real promise in it.”
Lima looks a top prospect
- READ MORE: Pedro Lima makes endearing admission about what ‘surprised’ him when he signed for Wolves
Lima could probably not have asked for a better debut all things considered.
He got himself an assist, and also looked at home in the backline. He probably benefitted a lot from having the experienced Craig Dawson playing next to him, and Burnley did not offer a great deal offensively. But irrespective of that, it was still an impressive showing from Lima.
Semedo will likely go back into the starting XI this weekend against Nottingham Forest, as he returns from suspension. So it could now be some time before we see Lima starting for the first-team again.
But he certainly did his prospects no harm against Burnley.