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Troy Deeney makes bold prediction about ‘very good’ Joao Gomes amid Wolves ‘struggle’

Wolves’ dreary start to the season continued against Crystal Palace, extending the Old Gold’s winless run.

It’s now just one win in 20 for Gary O’Neil’s side in the Premier League, with Wolves yet to win this season. 

With just three points from a possible 30, the Midlands club sit bottom of the table and four points from safety.

A huge effort is needed to turn things around however, all faith is not lost, as the squad that O’Neil has at his disposal is littered with star talent.

Wolverhampton Wanderers FC v Crystal Palace FC - Premier League
Photo by Jack Thomas – WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images

Troy Deeney praises Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes

Match day 10 belonged partly to Joao Gomes, who was instrumental in Wolves collecting a result against Crystal Palace. 

Despite the Old Gold’s efforts, the match ended 2-2, providing just one point when the need to win couldn’t be higher.

Gomes and Jorgen Strand Larsen were the scorers on the evening at Molineux, with the Brazilian earning praise from Troy Deeney, who named the midfielder in his BBC Sport Team of the Week

“He covered every blade of grass as Wolves earned a point against Crystal Palace – and has been doing that for a number of weeks,” Deeney said before making a bold prediction about Gomes’ future.

“Wolves are going to need him to continue doing it to get them out of a relegation battle. If he keeps playing like this they will struggle to keep him. A very good footballer.”

Deeney’s assessment is something that fans are more than aware of, as players such as Gomes are likely to generate attention in the summer, particularly if Wolves continue to struggle.

Gomes has turned a corner

There’s little to fault over Gomes’ £15m move from Flamengo to Wolves, as the Brazil international has become paramount to the Old Gold’s midfield. 

Earlier in the season, the 23-year-old was questioned over some rash performances, disrupting play with fouls and needless yellow cards.

Since picking up his fourth booking of the campaign, Gomes’ focus has shifted, playing with a more mature head and leading well from the middle of the park.

Having a player Gomes’ quality performing is essential if Wolves are to survive, with a repeat of his display against Palace needed for the remainder of the season.