September draws to a close and Wolves fans can feel better about their club’s prospects than they would have on the first of the month.
It’s not time to get carried away just yet. Wolves are still bottom of the league with one point from six games.
But the outlook has certainly been brightened by progressing in the cup and outperforming Spurs on their home turf at the weekend. Things are trending in the right direction, and some standout performers deserve recognition for their efforts.
Tolu Arokodare opened his Wolves account, Hugo Bueno continues to look like a man possessed, and Jhon Arias might just be finding his feet. But only one player can be awarded Player of the Month, and it’s an easy choice for this writer.
Ladislav Krejci’s September performances should earn him Player of the Month
Wolves’ slow start was exacerbated by the fact that so many new signings were being bedded into the side. Vitor Pereira had a job on his hands trying to integrate so many players, while so many important leaders had already left.
But Ladislav Krejci has looked great so far in a Wolves shirt. He has played both at the back and in midfield, showing composure and class that has really settled the side.
He also popped up with a goal after just eight minutes against Leeds.
READ MORE: How David Moller Wolfe truly feels about a lack of minutes at Wolves
There were question marks over Krejci’s ability to play in midfield, having been utilised for the most part as a centre-back at Girona. But the Czech defender has shown he can step into that role, and step up the performance.
A worthy winner.
Krejci could be Vitor Pereira’s best weapon
When you talk about weapons, you immediately think of goalscorers or creators who can turn a game on its head. No one has staked their claim for that label so far this season.
But in terms of a tactical weapon, Krejci could be huge for Wolves.
Pereira has shown a willingness to play a back four, as he did in the Carabao Cup win over Everton. This kind of flexibility could be invaluable at times this season, and in Krejci, you have a player who can change the system on his own.
Say Pereira starts with a back five but wants to switch it up, Krejci can step up into the midfield and bang, the change is made. Conversely, he can start in a midfield three and drop in to the back line if the game requires it.
When the links to Krejci first emerged, the versatility immediately stood out and excited Wolves fans, but there was always the concern that he wouldn’t be able for the intensity of a Premier League midfield.
Just over a month in, Wolves’ new signing has shown he is more than capable, and his importance to the side will only grow from here.