Gary O’Neil has provided an injury update ahead of Wolves’ home clash against Burnley as he confirms that Jose Sa will be fit for the tie.
The goalkeeper was forced off the pitch early in the first half as the visitors lost 2-1 at the Emirates.
The defeat means Wolves have now lost back-to-back games under O’Neil for the first time since September after their 3-2 loss to Fulham last week.
However, Tuesday provides Wolves with the perfect opportunity to bounce back.
Burnley has struggled since promotion and has only won two games so far in the Premier League.
With O’Neil’s side returning to Molineux for the first time since their dramatic 2-1 against Spurs, many fans are expecting three points.
Injuries, however, are an issue. Pedro Neto, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Joe Hodge and Nathan Fraser have been missing in recent games.
In preparation for Tuesday’s tie, O’Neil provided fans with an update on their ongoing situations.
Jose Sa injury update
The goalkeeper was forced off the field at the Emirates with a back injury on Saturday.
There were concerns that Wolves may have another long-term injury on their hands when he was subbed off for David Bentley.
However, O’Neil reassured fans before the game that the Portuguese international would be fit for Burnley.
Speaking to Wolves he said: “Sa did some training today, so we’ll do a last few checks on him tomorrow, but he felt fine, so we’re hopeful Jose will be fine.”
Expected return: Burnley (December 5)
Pedro Neto injury update
The winger had been on fire for Wolves until his injury against Newcastle in October.
Despite optimism that he would be back soon, Neto has missed games against Sheffield United, Spurs, Fulham and Arsenal.
This is despite an international break splitting the four games.
The 23-year-old is recovering well and has now returned to training. However, he is not expected to be back for Burnley.
“Pedro’s still working his way up to speed, so not with us yet, but it is getting closer. He’s excited, he’s got a bounce in his step and smile on his face around training, so he’s getting closer,” O’Neil added.
Expected return: Nottingham Forest: (December 9)
Rayan Ait-Nouri injury update
The in-form full-back was forced off the pitch in a 3-2 defeat to Fulham last week.
His injury has no doubt been a loss for O’Neil after he hit a great run of form and was particularly impressive against Spurs.
The manager had hoped he would be back this week but he confirmed that Tuesday’s game is just a bit too early for the Algerian to make a return to the pitch.
“Rayan’s doing well,” O’Neil explained. “Tomorrow will be too early but hope to have him available at the weekend. Hopefully, he can play a part against Nottingham Forest.”
Expected return: Nottingham Forest: (December 9)
Joe Hodge injury update
The midfielder is still expected to be out after his shoulder injury.
Hopefully, the youngster will be back sooner rather than later.
Expected return: Unknown
Nathan Fraser injury update
It is expected that Fraser will miss the game.
O’Neil confirmed last week that he plans for the striker to take part in an Under 21s game on Wednesday night to help him return to fitness.
After this, he may be available to return on the weekend.
Expected return: Nottingham Forest: (December 9)
Mario Lemina and Joao Gomes suspension update
The duo will be available to face Burnley on Tuesday.
Both midfielders picked up their fifth booking of the season against Fulham meaning they were suspended against Arsenal.
However, that suspension has now been served with the pair both available to face the Clarets.
This will certainly be a boost to Wolves and O’Neil given their form. Lemina in particular has been sensational in recent games with his late winner against Spurs being a highlight.