Lage responds when asked whether Podence will get a chance in the league

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Bruno Lage has been asked whether he is considering giving Wolves winger Daniel Podence a chance in the Premier League.

At his press conference ahead of the trip to Southampton, the Express and Star report the question was put to Lage about Podence.

Podence’s EFL Cup performances have been impressive but he only has 47 league minutes to his name so far, in two substitute appearances.

Lage played his cards close to his chest, but did praise the way the wideman has been training.

“In the game they did what they’re doing in training so it was not a surprise for me what guys like Daniel did in the game, because he’s doing well in training,” said Lage.

“It’s a question of what you give every day for us. Sometimes, one player comes on and scores one goal but it doesn’t mean he needs to play from the start. He can also do the same job to help us.

“It’s also about the best strategy to play against the other team. We have four wingers and they can give us different solutions. The thing is to choose the best two for each moment.

“I’ve known Daniel since he was little. I’ve played against him lots of times at under-10s, under-15s and under-17s. I know what he did at Sporting, Olympiacos and here. I know him very well and the things he can do for us.”

Lage should be considering shake-up

Lage hasn’t changed his Premier League lineup yet but he must be considering alterations now.

It’s not a change for change’s sake; Wolves have dangerous players like Podence in reserve at a time when they could do with a spark.

Lage seems to have clear ideas about what he wants to do and he may feel his usual side can get the job done at Southampton.

But if he keeps leaving viable alternatives out of the side, he’ll come under scrutiny if results don’t improve.

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