It’s only been a couple of weeks but Wolves replacing Gary O’Neil with Vitor Pereira already looks like a masterstroke.
Wolves closed out 2024 with wins over Leicester City and Manchester United before salvaging a last-gasp point at Tottenham.
The above results saw the Old Gold escape the relegation zone for the first time since matchday 12, increasing their chances of Premier League survival.
In his short time at Molineux, Vitor Pereira has brought fresh energy to Wolves and the Portuguese boss is quickly unlocking the potential of his talented squad.
Now, midfielder Tommy Doyle has offered insight into how the players feel in the dressing room.
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Tommy Doyle shares Vitor Pereira verdict
Gary O’Neil was sacked when Wolves were at their lowest point. A return of just two wins from 16 games finally saw the hierarchy pull the trigger on the Englishman.
Wolves 2-1 defeat to Ipswich in December was the final nail in the coffin. It was a performance that saw many in gold lose their composure, with Matheus Cunha facing a two-match ban after his involvement in a scuffle.
The anger shown by the players was a sad reflection of them no longer playing for O’Neil, and Doyle has now aimed a subtle dig at his former manager.
The Englishman, who O’Neil signed from Manchester City in the summer, has said how the change in management came at the right time and now the squad is in a much better place.
“I think the change was probably needed near the end,” Doyle told the E&S. “You can see how a lot of lads are revitalised and a lot more lads are getting minutes and the squad’s being used.
“Everybody feels good, the changing room’s in a great spot right now. I think that’s down to the manager and his staff. We’re in a good spot and we end the year on a high.
“We’ve got to take this into the New Year. You’ve got to keep building on this and keep pushing.
“If we keep this form up, we’ll finish the season really strong.”
Wolves face a tough start to 2025
The end of 2024 was magnificent for Wolves, with supporters now feeling they can survive in the top flight.
For Pereira to give his side clear daylight between them and the relegation zone, the next five fixtures could play a pivotal role.
Unfortunately, after playing Man United and Spurs, the Old Gold face four teams who are chasing the European places, including Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, Chelsea and Arsenal.
This will be a true test of the Wolves squad and their ability to battle against the league’s best as continuing their upward momentum is an edge they could have in the battle for Premier League safety.
Indeed, supporters will hope their side can make a brilliant start to 2025 and continue their great work under Pereira.