When Rob Edwards is finally handed the keys at Wolves, the first item on his agenda will be designing a starting XI that fits his style.
The inconsistency in Wolves’ lineups this season could be pointed to as a reason for their early struggles.
The mistake Vitor Pereira was guilty of at times was too much change, especially at the back.
Every manager has different preferences and requirements when it comes to building a lineup, but some Wolves stars have made themselves undroppable and Edwards will have to start with them from day one against Crystal Palace.
Wolves stars who have to start for Rob Edwards
Andre
In the opening weeks of the season, Pereira dropped Andre from the starting lineup, having been unimpressed with the Brazilian’s effort in training. But when he’s not on the pitch, Wolves lose valuable solidity and experience that can make them too easy to play through.
Andre is in contention for the Brazil squad, and will use that as extra motivation to deliver quality performances at Molineux. The same can be said for the next choice, whom Edwards also has to build around.
Joao Gomes
Joao Gomes will also have one eye on the World Cup, despite the disappointment of not being selected by Carlo Ancelotti. Since he and Andre have paired up in the middle of the park, they have been a rare source of quality and consistency for Wolves.
If Edwards can’t avoid relegation, those two will be some of the first linked with a move away. They’re far too good for the Championship. So, while he has them at his disposal, they really can’t be filling the bench.
Hugo Bueno
In a season where pleasant surprises have been few and far between, Hugo Bueno’s emergence as a starting quality full-back has taken everyone by surprise.
His two-way play has been second to none at Molineux this season, and he has kept David Moller Wolfe from getting a sniff at the first XI. When Wolves are flat, the Spaniard can offer a reprieve with positive forward play and a real desire to push the team forward.
Undroppable.
Ladislav Krejci
Pereira’s transfer policy at Wolves this summer didn’t pay too many dividends, but Ladislav Krejci has been undeniably solid since arriving. Much of the side’s woes have come from defensive errors, poor organisation and sloppy passing at the back.
Krejci has been labelled Wolves’ best player this season, offering composure and quality in possession. If Edwards wants to be confident in his defensive line in possession, the Czech defender has to start.
The new hire has his work cut out for him once he commences the role, but those four can possibly make his life a bit easier.