Wolves manager Gary O’Neil has expressed his delight with the recent form of defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, who scored the Old Gold’s opener on Saturday afternoon against Fulham.
Wolves dug deep to secure a crucial three points against Fulham on Saturday afternoon at Molineux, winning 2-1 against the Londoners despite their injury woes.
The Old Gold lost both Pedro Neto and Jean-Ricner Bellegarde during the contest, adding to their injury list in attack with Matheus Cunha and Hwang Hee-chan already absent.
Gary O’Neil’s side showed their resilience to get the win against Fulham, who arrived in the Midlands in good form after beating Manchester United and Brighton prior to their visit to Molineux.
It was second-half goals courtesy of Wolves’ fullbacks that secured the direction of the three points, with Rayan Ait-Nouri and Nelson Semedo responsible for firing the club to just two points below seventh place.
What Gary O’Neil said about Rayan Ait-Nouri after Wolves win over Fulham
Speaking to the media after the game, via Express & Star, O’Neil took the time to sing the praises of Ait-Nouri, who was instrumental in all aspects of the game besides his goal.
“He’s very important, I’ve been able to use him in a few different positions. He can play in midfield, as a 10, on the right or left.”
The Algerian caused Fulham problems throughout the 90 minutes played, highlighted by him drawing four fouls and providing a continual threat down the left side.
Ait-Nouri’s versatility was not only key to Wolves earning a well-fought three points against the Cottagers but has been integral to the Old Gold’s progression this season.
Rayan Ait-Nouri has become vital for Wolves
When reviewing how good the 22-year-old has been for O’Neil’s side this campaign, it’s bewildering to consider that the Algerian almost exited Molineux due to not being favoured by Julen Lopetegui.
Having been almost exiled from the squad by the Spaniard, Ait-Nouri has certainly found a place in the new manager’s plans, with the Englishman taking the time to express his love for the defender.
“He’s a great lad who has loads of ability. I absolutely love him as a guy and he’s come on so much as well, with his professionalism and the way he approaches things.”
“He’s learning, asking loads of really good questions where I can help him understand things.”
The levels to Ait-Nouri’s game span beyond the comforts of Molineux, with him ranking in the top 2% of fullbacks in the Premier League this season based on his stellar average of 2.38 successful take-ons per 90, via FBref.
Wolves will be relieved that the Algerian has found a place to be appreciated at the club after the struggles he faced last term, with the 22-year-old emerging as one of O’Neil’s best this term.