Vitor Pereira has wasted no time turning Wolves’ fortunes around.
Taking over from Gary O’Neil last month, Pereira has hit the ground running and picked up seven points from his first three matches. The Portuguese manager’s early unbeaten run included Wolves’ 2-2 draw against Spurs.
And now preparing for an important but difficult home tie against Nottingham Forest on Monday, Wolves know the importance of continuing their form if they’re to secure their top-flight status.
One player has a lot of belief in his teammates and new manager though.
Nelson Semedo takes new swipe at Gary O’Neil
Seemingly not a fan of working under his former manager, Nelson Semedo has already criticised O’Neil after admitting the Wolves first-team ‘needed a change’ following Pereira’s debut victory against Leicester City.
And the Portuguese full-back has taken another swipe at O’Neil by suggesting the 41-year-old was unable to get the best out of the squad.
“The main thing we needed was a change,” Semedo told Sky Sports.
“Vitor arrived with his team and, after three days, we looked like a different team. A better team and a better version of ourselves. We all knew we had it. But we couldn’t reach that level before.
“It all started on the training pitch. At the end of the day, it was a matter of details. It took maybe two hours for him to explain how he wanted us to play, how he wanted us to press, how he wanted us to defend. Now everyone is satisfied, and we continue. “
Semedo’s comments will resonate with fans, who will be hoping Micah Richards’ mid-table finish for Wolves prediction comes true.
Wolves squad loving Vitor Pereira’s man-management
Becoming a well-respected member of the club, the Wolves manager’s approach to management appears to be working wonders.
Pereira recently revealed an agreement he made with Andre to allow him to return to Brazil for the birth of his son as long as he was back in time for the Forest match. Matheus Cunha has also recently been granted time off due to ‘personal problems’, and Semedo has acknowledged how reasonable his new boss is.
“He’s very demanding, but he’s also a very good human being,” the full-back added.
“For example, we had a few days off over New Year’s because he realised we deserved it. He knows when to give the boys a little affection. They came back happier and with more energy.”
Pereira’s firm but fair style seems to be the best approach for this group of players. Willing to give their all for him on the pitch, the Wolves squad definitely appear up for the fight ahead of the second half of the season.