Lage says he has been following Sa’s career for years

Bruno Lage signed Jose Sa to replace Rui Patricio between the sticks for Wolves this summer.

Lage has told the Express and Star he knew exactly what he was getting with Sa.

He said he has been tracking Sa’s career since he was 17 and has not been surprised by his strong start to life at Molineux.

There was also praise for the man who is in charge of improving Sa, goalkeeping coach Tony Roberts.

When Lage was asked if he has been impressed with Sa, he said: “No, because I’ve known him since he was 17 and I know his value. I followed his career. He never worked with me at Benfica but I know what he can do.

“The other thing I know very well is the work of Tony Roberts. He is one of the best goalkeeper coaches in the world. The way he works, the way he gets involved in our staff. So for me, it’s not a surprise.

“It’s a combination between the value of Jose and John (Ruddy) – who played very well against Nottingham Forest and Tottenham – and Tony.

“That’s why it’s a good challenge for John and Jose, to work with Tony, because for me he is one of the best goalkeeper coaches in the world.”

With Sa and Roberts coming in, there were big changes in the goalkeeping department over the summer.

Sa has adjusted exceptionally well to English football and that is testament to Lage and Roberts too.

Ruddy may well leave in the summer to get more first-team football, but for the time being, he is offering a hugely professional and competitive alternative for Sa.

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