Jhon Arias has come in for criticism this season, but the winger has made some refreshing comments about his early struggles at Wolves.
Jhon Arias was Wolves’ second signing of the summer, joining the club from Fluminense in a £19 million deal.
He was essentially the replacement for Matheus Cunha, with Arias even taking the number 10 shirt.
But sadly, Arias has not been able to hit the ground running as everyone hoped, and is yet to score or assist for Wolves.
There have been plenty of opportunities for him.
But it just hasn’t happened for the Colombia international yet, and incoming manager Rob Edwards has to find a way of unlocking him.
Arias was among the nominees for Best Men’s Midfielder at the FIFA Best awards, which serves as a reminder that this is a great player, who at the moment isn’t being utilised in the way he should.
While it’s been a disappointing start, Arias is defiant.
Jhon Arias opens up about poor form at Wolves
Arias has done well from a defensive standpoint, but has not offered a great deal in the final third.
He’s come close a few times to opening his account – he almost scored a superb free-kick against Burnley which may well have been a catalyst for him to kick on.
But Arias is still waiting for that first goal contribution, and hopefully the arrival of Edwards will spark him into life.
The 28-year-old is ready to turn things around though, making that clear in a new interview.
He told Radio Caracol: “Would I sign for Wolves again? Yes, totally. I’m very calm about my decision.
“I knew there would be difficulties, but I like challenges because they’re the best way to grow and learn… by stepping out of your comfort zone. Days of glory and joy will come.”
Arias desperately needs a goal for Wolves
Improving Arias is something that Edwards needs to place high on his agenda when he comes in.
It has not been the start he would have been hoping for and fans have expressed their frustrations about him on social media, but Arias is a player who yet could make a big difference for Wolves.
He was a top player for years at Fluminense. Granted, the standard of the Brazilian top-flight doesn’t compare to the Premier League.
But he also shone at the Club World Cup and is a player with international pedigree. And of course, the fact he was on that list for Best Men’s Midfielder was a clear reminder of his quality.
He’s been played in multiple positions during his time at Molineux so far and Pereira gave the impression he did not know where best to utilise him.
When Edwards comes in, he has to get him playing. He looks to have been lacking confidence as a result of the disarray but potentially, a first goal for Arias could change everything.