One Wolves star is now Vitor Pereira’s most influential player after Matheus Cunha suspension

Wolves were dealt a major blow in their hopes of Premier League survival at the weekend despite not playing in the competition.

Wolves’ dramatic penalty shootout loss against Bournemouth was overshadowed by Matheus Cunha, who went from hero to zero.

The Brazilian scored a sublime equaliser before being sent off for headbutting Milos Kerkez in the final minute of extra time.

It impacted Vitor Pereira’s men in the game as the Brazilian would have almost certainly taken a penalty however, his ridiculous actions will now see Cunha miss the next three games at least.

Given that the 25-year-old has netted 15 in all competitions this term, his importance to the squad is undeniable, but one other player proved he can be just as influential at the other end of the pitch.

• READ MORE: One winner and three losers after Wolves suffer FA Cup penalty heartbreak against Bournemouth

Toti Gomes was excellent in Wolves defeat to Bournemouth

Cunha stole the plaudits for getting his side on level terms with a sublime strike and was then blasted for his ridiculous red card.

While the Brazilian cost his side with a moment of madness, centre-back Toti Gomes produced a performance to remember.

Although he lost the run of Antoine Semenyo for Bournemouth’s early goal, the Portuguese defender was incredible for the rest of the game.

He made multiple goal-saving clearances and some amazing blocks on the line to keep his side in with a fighting chance.

Reflecting on his performance at the Vitality Stadium, Toti was proud despite the defeat, and his statistics from the fixture explain why.

Toti Gomes stats vs Bournemouth

• 120 minutes played
• 9 clearances
• 6 blocked shots
• 7/8 ground duels won
• 4/6 aerial duels won
• 74 touches
• 6 tackles

The 25-year-old was a man-mountain in defence, and although losing Cunha from an attacking perspective is a massive blow, his teammates’ display suggests clean sheets could be on the horizon.

Toti’s influence will be massive in Wolves’ next three matches

In the absence of Emmanuel Agbadou, who is still injured and without their talisman leading the charge, defensive solidity will be key.

Fortunately, since Pereira arrived at Molineux, Toti has cemented his place on the left side of defence and continues to look better with each passing game.

The next three games could be season-defining for Wolves. If they go wrong, the five-point gap will be slashed, and they’ll need Cunha to drag them out of the mess.

However, successfully picking up points during this run will mean their defence has been on point. Toti – as demonstrated in the loss to Bournemouth – is arguably the most important player in their backline.