Wolves slipped to defeat yesterday in Bruno Lage’s first match in charge.
The team lost 1-0 to Crewe Alexandra at Gresty Roady, with Christopher Long scoring the game’s only goal.
Although it is always nice to win, results are not massively important in pre-season – it’s obviously all about getting minutes into players’ legs, and giving chances to youngsters and those on the fringes.
Lage named a fairly strong side to begin with in a 4-4-2 formation.
The most eye-catching part of the manager’s first starting XI, was the inclusion of Raul Jimenez.
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The 30-year-old was playing for the first time since his horror head clash with David Luiz at Arsenal.
The star was handed 34 minutes, before being substituted off in what was a pre-planned change.
It has been a long road to recovery for Jimenez.
Many fans will never forget those harrowing scenes at the Emirates Stadium.
The fact he has been able to return is amazing news, and many can’t wait to see him run out at Molineux.
Jimenez’s cameo against Crewe was successful; he looked quite sharp and almost scored when his free-kick deflected onto crossbar. He also won a header.
The Mexico international took to Instagram last night to mark his return after 230 days on the sidelines, writing: “It’s good to be back!”