Wolves legend Steve Bull never shied away from a battle with Newcastle during his career, scoring six in seven appearances.
He is more bullish than most about this weekend’s road trip north.
Wolves are underdogs going into this one, but Steve Bull sees weaknesses in this Newcastle side that can be exploited by Vitor Pereira.
Despite crucial upcoming fixtures, Bull reckons today’s game could be an equally strong opportunity for points.
Steve Bull wants at least a draw against an unconvincing Newcastle
Newcastle are also winless in their opening three fixtures.
Another club struggling after a summer of change, they haven’t looked at their best and Bull doesn’t think it’s a coincidence.
Writing for E&S, Bull claims: “There are some big games coming up against the three promoted teams in the next six games, but we cannot look beyond the next one against Newcastle.
“I’ve watched their last few games, and after losing some key players, I genuinely think they will be down there with us this season.”
A bold claim considering most have Newcastle competing for Europe this season. But Bull isn’t convinced by Eddie Howe’s side, and thinks Wolves should really go for it.
“I think it’s a good opportunity for us to get three points on the board. Don’t give them too much respect and at least get something out of the game.”
Play to win, not to survive. That’s Bull’s take.
Vitor Pereira’s lineup will tell us if Wolves are playing to win
Pereira has some difficult lineup decisions to make for Saturday’s clash.
He has hinted at Hwang Hee-chan being the preferred option, as new signing Tolu Arokodare isn’t fully match-fit. But how he sets up in the wide attacking areas is the real indicator of the kind of match we will see.
When Man City came to Molineux, Pereira started Marshall Munetsi and Jean-Ricner Bellegarde with pressing and defence in mind.
Though effective out of possession, it blunts the Wolves attack going forward. Someone like Fer Lopez starting would signal that Wolves want to create and score.
If either Munetsi or Bellegarde start high up, it’s a more negative approach.
Molineux News’ predicted XI for Newcastle sees Lopez start with Jhon Arias to hopefully make something happen. Whether Pereira takes that approach is anyone’s guess.