It looks like Jhon Arias is finding his feet at Wolves.
His Player of the Match performance against Spurs was an exhibition of what Wolves fans were so excited about when he completed his £19 million move from Fluminense.
Jhon Arias was everywhere in that 1-1 draw, making the most passes (50) and creating the most chances (3) as Wolves looked to get off the mark in the Premier League.
The night wouldn’t end in victory, but it was a huge source of encouragement from Vitor Pereira’s side, and from Arias specifically.
Jhon Arias discusses his favourite position
In the aftermath of Saturday’s action, the Colombian was interviewed for Wolves’ official website, to discuss the result and thoughts on the season as a whole.
Pereira has been switching things up recently in terms of formation and in-possession approach, which has been an adaptation for Arias.
As he explains: “In Brazil I played more outside, more as the winger, but for the national team I play inside, in the middle.
“For me, it’s the same, it’s good. Obviously, for me I’m more familiar outside.”
The change to a 4-3-3 against Everton and for the first half at Spurs unlocked something for Arias. He clearly feels more comfortable out wide, and Pereira should keep that in mind over the upcoming crucial stretch.
There are still more improvements for Arias to make, and he himself is confident about the future.
The best is yet to come, says Arias
The transition from Brazil to England was always going to be difficult.
Wolves’ poor form didn’t help Arias in the slightest, but there was still a risk of hasty judgment from fans.
But things are trending in the right direction, and Arias isn’t resting on his laurels, as he says: “I feel good. I feel better with the team, with the ideas of the coach. I think my best version is coming and it’s important for me.”
This POTM performance was more akin to the performances we saw from Arias at the Club World Cup.
He sees it as a big turning point and will want more of the same: “It was a special moment. My first Man of the Match is good, against Tottenham away, it’s a difficult game.
“So, a special moment. We want to collect more wins and to be happy here.”
Arias’ Wolves career has just begun, and his words suggest he’s extremely motivated. If that translates to the pitch, it could be huge for Pereira’s bid for survival.