Nuno Espirito Santo has hailed Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves’ character this season.
The 23-year-old has been one of the better performers for the club this term, and is a trusted member of the squad.
So far he’s made 24 appearances, and his importance to the starting XI is clear.
Neves got on the scoresheet on Tuesday against Arsenal, but saw his thunder stolen somewhat by Joao Moutinho, who scored a wondergoal at Molineux to get Wolves the three points.
For his goal celebration, Neves tucked the ball under his shirt to acknowledge that he recently became a father again.
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He unfortunately had to miss the birth, and Nuno has paid tribute to the former FC Porto man in his press conference today ahead of the club’s next game against Leicester City on Sunday.
He said, as quoted by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers: “He’s shown us and everybody that he’s truly committed.
“He understands in this moment he’s not able to travel. I’m very proud of the way he handled the situation.”
Neves deserves great credit
It cannot have been an easy time at all for Neves knowing he wouldn’t be able to be by his wife’s side at the birth.
According to The Daily Mail, the player had to watch via Facetime on the coach back after the Crystal Palace defeat.
That he’s always been available for Nuno, and been in good form lately despite everything going on in his life, really is a testament to his character and it seems Neves’ maturity extends far beyond his 23 years.