Wolves host Leeds United, knowing that only a win will do after a miserable start to the season.
Despite an improved performance, Vitor Pereira’s side fell to a narrow defeat against Newcastle United last weekend.
The Old Gold have yet to lead for a single minute in a match this season, a worrying trend that Pereira must look to end.
The importance of this game can’t be overstated, with Wolves desperate to avoid sitting on zero points after five Premier League matches, while Leeds will provide a stern test, having already picked up four points from their opening fixtures.
With that in mind, here’s Molineux News’ predicted Wolves XI to take on Leeds.
Just two changes to the Wolves team as Jose Sa and Jhon Arias return to the team
Despite Sam Johnstone impressing against Newcastle, first-choice goalkeeper Jose Sa is expected to return between the sticks.
The backline is set to remain unchanged, even though Emmanuel Agbadou has come under scrutiny in recent weeks after a run of poor form.
Pereira plans to persist with inverted wing-backs and is likely to keep faith with the same defensive unit as he seeks stability at the back.
The other tweak comes in attack, with Jhon Arias coming in for Tolu Arokodare, as a tactical change to add more creativity and balance to the forward line.
Leeds’ injury concerns mean they are likely to sit deeper, handing Wolves more possession, and that is a scenario that will suit Arias’ ability to unlock defences with dribbling and intricate passing.
Vitor Pereira should stick with Ladislav Krejci after his impressive debut
The midfield is expected to remain unchanged, with Ladislav Krejci, Andre and Joao Gomes all keeping their places.
The trio worked well together, offering balance and control in Pereira’s 3-5-2 system.
This midfield makes Wolves more solid in the middle of the park, providing both defensive cover and control.
Krejci was the standout performer against Newcastle, breaking up play and allowing the Old Gold to counter with purpose.
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde and Marshall Munetsi remain useful options on the bench, ready to provide fresh legs if needed.
Pereira decides Jorgen Strand Larsen is only fit enough for the bench
Jorgen Strand Larsen makes his return from injury this weekend, but Wolves are being cautious about throwing him straight back into the starting lineup.
The Norwegian striker gives the side a natural focal point in attack, something they have missed when relying solely on Hwang Hee-chan.
Pereira knows Wolves are a better team with Larsen leading the line, but rushing him back risks further setbacks.
Instead, he could be used as an impact option from the bench, just as he was in the 3-2 Carabao Cup win over West Ham.
Arias and Hwang are likely to start in attack, with both Arokodare and Larsen waiting to provide energy and presence later in the game.
Predicted XI vs Leeds: Sa; Bueno, Agbadou, Mosquera, Toti, Gomes; Andre, J.Gomes, Krejci; Hwang, Arias.