Jorgen Strand Larsen returned from international duty early due to injury, and ever since Wolves have been sweating on his return.
The Norwegian is one of the club’s most important players, particularly after losing Rayan Ait Nouri and Matheus Cunha earlier in the summer, and having him back as soon as possible is essential.
Despite interest from Newcastle, Wolves were able to fend off any bids, and they kept Larsen at Molineux for the foreseeable.
Wolves will now travel to face the same team that tried to poach their number nine, and the Old Gold will hope to avoid unwanted history, but they may have to do so without Strand Larsen.
Jorgen Strand Larsen ruled out of Newcastle game
Vitor Pereira has delivered an update on Jorgen Strand Larsen’s injury, and it is not the news Wolves fans will want to hear.
The Norwegian missed their last match against Everton, as the Old Gold slumped to a 3-2 defeat. It has now been confirmed by Pereira he will miss the trip to St. James’ Park.
The Wolves boss said, ‘We are without Larsen, the injury was a bit more serious and he’s trying to come back. We want him back as soon as possible, but he’s not training yet.’
There has been no timeline provided about the striker’s potential return, but with the striker still not in training, it is a concerning situation for the club.
It is a major blow for Pereira who has been waiting to pick up Wolves’ first points of the season, and doing so without their star striker will make it more difficult.
Although, Newcastle will also be without an injured forward for Saturday’s game.
However, thanks to some transfer work done late in the window, Pereira could have another option to play up top.
Tolu Arokodare must start against Newcastle
Tolu Arokodare arrived at Molineux on deadline day, and fans have been waiting to see him in action.
The Nigerian impressed on international duty, scoring for the Super Eagles against Rwanda, and he could now be in line to start against Newcastle.
Out of all of Wolves’ Strand Larsen alternatives, Tolu is the closest in style, and he has to start against Newcastle.
His physical presence could give the Old Gold more of a chance against the likes of Dan Burn, and will allow them a better target for crosses.
Stats show Wolves put more crosses into the box than anyone else, and the £24 million signing could be a beneficiary of that.
However, Hwang Hee-chan’s record against Newcastle could tempt Vitor Pereira to start the Korean instead.