Journalist predicts exactly where Wolves will finish this season

It’s that time of year where pundits and journalists alike make their predictions for the season ahead.

You knew broadly what to expect from Wolves under Nuno Espirito Santo, but Bruno Lage’s arrival makes it more of an unknown.

His new attacking style could propel Wolves up the league, re-energising the club and launching a challenge for Europe.

Or the squad might look in need of more signings when the season starts, and that’s what BBC’s Monday Night Club discussed (09.08, 7.58pm).

“I think Wolves will probably end up feeling underwhelming,” said New York Times journalist Rory Smith.

“But we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that Wolves finishing 12th in the Premier League is still a fair old achievement.

When asked by fellow guest Chris Sutton whether that assessment was patronising, Smith said: “Yeah it is a bit patronising, ultimately, but it’s true.

“Wolves finishing 12th is good. That is good for Wolves. They shouldn’t be winning the title. If they finish 12th, they finish 12th.”

Would 12th represent a good season?

After finishing 13th last season, coming 12th this time around having changed the manager would feel underwhelming.

That said, Wolves’ work in the transfer market this summer doesn’t suggest they’ve done enough to make the jump back up to be challenging for European football.

So a season of stability under Lage wouldn’t look like success, but it would also mean that many fans’ worst fears haven’t been realised either.

Every fan will have their own ideas of what a good season looks like next term, but 12th place would just be par for the course.

If it can be achieved with more entertaining football than Nuno Espirito Santo served up last season, that would be something at least, with fans back in at Molineux to watch it.

• Wolves confirmed XI vs Man United, Ladislav Krejci starts as Rob Edwards makes two changes
• Wolves learn their FA Cup third round opponent as draw provides a Midlands derby
• Some Wolves fans will sympathise as Rob Edwards makes heartfelt admission in new Sky interview
• What Fosun are expected to do in the Championship if Wolves fail to stay up
• What Fer Lopez is currently working especially hard on at Wolves as loan exit beckons