We are now five games into Rob Edwards’ tenure as Wolves boss, and the head coach is still finding ways to solve the Old Gold’s issues.
Edwards has already tested out multiple formations and line-ups since arriving at the Molineux club, including playing both Tolu Arokodare and Jorgen Strand Larsen up top.
Against Arsenal, there was a new combination present. Hwang Hee-chan partnered Larsen for the first time under Edwards.
While Wolves struggled to gain a high volume of chances, that combination did manage to find some joy. Alan Shearer even went as far as calling Wolves ‘brilliant’.
And it might be wise to try it again against different opposition, and there could also be a slight tweak.
Despite defeat, there were plenty of positives to take away from that Wolves performance.
Hwang Hee-chan worked well in a front two
Hwang Hee-chan has been the subject of a lot of criticism this season, with many feeling his performances have not been up to scratch.
The Korean was handed a rare start against Arsenal, his first since James Collins took over for Chelsea away back in early November.
Hwang, while not spectacular, did look quite sharp, and the forward managed to carve out the best chance of the first half. It was a promising showing from the forward.
In truth, he should have done much better to put the ball away after a magnificent run starting from inside his own half. But his link-up with Jorgen Strand Larsen did look like it could spark some joy.
HOT TAKE 🔥: Hwang Hee-chan is an excellent option when used centrally for Wolves.
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Getting at a defence like Arsenal’s was always going to be tough, and even just those couple of moments when Wolves looked like they could score offer some hope.
There were plenty of breakaways for the Wanderers, but Arsenal’s quality proved to be too much.
However, the combination of the natural centre-forward alongside the quicker, smaller and more agile attacker may be something that works well against weaker defences.
And to make it even more pacier and electric, Edwards could also make a slight tweak.
Rob Edwards should try using Mateus Mane in the Hwang role
If Wolves are looking to add some pace to their attack, pairing Mateus Mane with either Jorgen Strand Larsen or Tolu Arokodare could be effective.
While Hwang did do OK in that role, he also could have offered a lot more in terms of speed.
The youth of Mane and the freshness he brings to the attack can be exactly what Wolves are missing. His assist against Arsenal surely means Mane starts against Brentford now.
And why not continue to go with what worked and start with a two-striker formation? Fans are in no doubt about the talent Mateus Mane offers.
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