Wolves manager Gary O’Neil has called on the supporters at Molineux this evening to bring the energy ahead of the Old Gold’s FA Cup clash with Brighton.
Wolves return to action in the FA Cup this evening as Premier League rivals Brighton & Hove Albion pay a visit to Molineux.
Gary O’Neil’s side will be motivated ahead of the fixture due to the way they reached the fifth round, after recording a dominant win over rivals West Brom in the Black Country derby to earn bragging rights and progression in the cup.
Now, an even bigger challenge awaits the Old Gold, who will have to be at their best to beat Roberto De Zerbi’s side, with O’Neil admitting that times could soon get ‘tough’ for his team.
Wolves team news vs Brighton
Speaking to the media ahead of the clash with the Seagulls, the manager expressed his concerns over the lack of depth in his squad.
“It’s going to be a tough finish to the season because a few of the lads are creaking a bit, there’s tired bodies and we have a small squad so some of the lads have to play lots of minutes in every game.”
Luckily, Wolves’ injury list isn’t currently too alarming, with the only notable absence from the first team being Matheus Cunha, whom O’Neil gave an update on this week.
Aside from the lack of depth in the squad, the boss was in good spirits ahead of the Brighton game and admitted that he is “excited” for one key thing going into the fixture.
What Gary O’Neil said about Molineux ahead of Brighton
As relayed by Express and Star, the manager called on the fans to provide a good atmosphere during the cup clash.
“Brighton are a very good team and we won’t have it all our own way, so there will be some spells when we need them. We need them to be loud when we’re on top and make it as difficult for Brighton as possible.”
“We’ll also need them to get behind the players when we’re digging in and defending the goal in a tough period, at home that gives you an advantage. I have no concerns over the atmosphere from what I’ve seen so far, I’m excited to be back there again and see if we can give them another memorable evening.”
The manager also gave a nod to the supporters for their persistence with the squad on Sunday, in what was a nervy second half at Molineux against Sheffield United.
“It was fantastic from them to recognise that and stay with them in a tough spell and I’m sure it will be the same on Wednesday.”
The FA Cup is capable of producing moments of footballing magic, and with the backing of the fans, Molineux could play host to another success story in the tournament for Wolves this season.