Wolves’ poor form so far this season has seen many of last season’s favourites drop out of the starting XI, and others make a comeback, including Santiago Bueno.
The defender has started in all of the Old Gold’s last three games, and he has built a formidable partnership with Ladislav Krejci.
While the performance against Sunderland left a lot to be desired, the general level of play has much improved since his return to the starting line-up.
Now, a new stat has revealed just how instrumental he has been in the defensive side of things for the Wanderers.
Santiago Bueno leading the way in tackles and interceptions for defenders
Santiago Bueno had a tough season last campaign, with the Uruguayan struggling to get himself into Vitor Pereira’s plans.
Emmanuel Agbadou’s arrival put the defender onto the bench for most of the season, with Bueno starting only seven games from January onwards.
The poor form of the Ivorian has given the player a chance for redemption, and he has seized his chance with both hands this season.
Not only has Bueno been exceptional defensively, but he has also scored his first goal for the club this season.
According to the Premier League, no defender has made more tackles and interceptions per 90 than Santiago Bueno (6.4 per 90).
The 26-year-old shares the accolade with Brighton’s Joel Veltman, having more across players who have played a minimum of four games.
Additionally, he is second overall for every position, and this weekend’s opponent Burnley’s Florentino Luis tops the list at 6.7 tackles and interceptions per 90.
Santiago Bueno should be one of the first on the team sheet
Santiago Bueno and Ladislav Krejci must start each and every week at the moment.
It is extremely important for Wolves to become a resilient and resolute defensive side again, and the best way for that to happen is by players consistently playing alongside each other.
The partnership they have built has worked so far, and trying to change that would be a major mistake.
Vitor Pereira may be tempted to try to play Agbadou into form, as last season showed how good he can be.
But he must resist the temptation in this case.