Max Kilman has described Hwang Hee-chan leaving for the Asian Cup as a ‘tough loss’ for Wolves – but believes Pedro Neto was looking very sharp on his return against Everton.
Wolves closed out 2023 in style yesterday, beating Everton 3-0 at Molineux and putting in a stellar display.
After beating Chelsea on Christmas Eve and then Brentford in midweek, Gary O’Neil was looking for a third straight win in the Premier League – and his players came through big time.
Wolves were superb, with Matheus Cunha particularly brilliant.
After the game, Gary O’Neil admitted that this was probably his favourite performance of the season so far – and plenty of fans will probably share that view.
It was a brilliant way to end the year, but there is potential for things to get a little tricky in the coming weeks, with key players leaving for international duty…
Max Kilman rues Hwang departure for Wolves but talks up Pedro Neto
Wolves are now losing top goalscorer Hwang, who is joining up with the South Korea national team for the AFC Asian Cup.
O’Neil is also losing Rayan Ait-Nouri and Boubacar Traore, as they head to AFCON with Algeria and Mali respectively.
The departure of Hwang is especially tough, with the 27-year-old having been magnificent this season. His output has been remarkable, with him being directly involved in 43% of Wolves’ Premier League goals this season (10 goals, 3 assists).
Kilman reckons he’ll be a big miss, but the captain was impressed with Pedro Neto’s cameo against Everton yesterday.
He said (Wolves official): “When he [Neto] came on for the last 15/20 minutes, he looked very sharp so it was good for him to build his sharpness and build his fitness, and then make sure he’s ready for the next game.
“Channy’s going to be a tough loss, of course. He’s been brilliant so far this season, but we’ve got brilliant players around the squad who will make sure they do the best when they take his position.”
Neto’s return timely
So Wolves will now lose Hwang for a period of time. The tournament takes place from January 12 until February 10, so there is potential for Hwang to miss five games for Wanderers if South Korea go all the way.
He will be a huge loss for his output and work rate, so that is why Neto’s return is extremely timely.
Before his hamstring injury, the £50,000-a-week Portuguese winger had been absolutely flying, providing seven Premier League assists.
O’Neil will be delighted he’s back, with one top player leaving, and hopefully he can quickly get back up to speed.