Conor Coady was linked to a remarkable return to Molineux in January, where he could’ve reconnected with one former teammate in particular.
One of the most surprising narratives that emerged from the January transfer window was reports that Wolves could agree a swap deal involving Coady.
It was speculated that the Old Gold were interested in making a move for their former captain, including Craig Dawson in a possible switch with Leicester City.
The transfer did not materialise past speculation but, it did have Wolves fans dreaming for a moment, as Coady’s leadership qualities are missed at Molineux.
Conor Coady’s assessment of Matt Doherty has aged well
A return to Molineux for Coady would be a surprise, and a positive one at that, with the former defender still adored in the West Midlands.
The Englishman was crucial to Wolves’ promotion to the Premier League and then the European adventure, playing alongside a host of club favourites.
Coady was a member of Wolves’ Europa League squad of 2019, where he was joined in defence by some notable names, including one player who remains at the club today.
Matt Doherty returned to Molineux in 2023 after spending three years away, with the Irishman’s presence still valuable to the Old Gold.
In 2019, Coady spoke highly of his former teammate, dubbing Doherty as ‘sensational’ when discussing the fullback’s progression through the leagues.
“He’s sensational, he’s been fantastic, he was last year as well. I think as he has grown, he’s grown with the club as well, he’s been absolutely fantastic,” Coady told Soccer AM.
“You see what he’s done this year, we all knew inside the club that he could adapt to the Premier League. He’s a fantastic footballer and he’s willing to learn every single day.”
Though the former captain’s high praise of Doherty came six years ago, his verdict on the Ireland international is still going strong today.
Doherty is valued highly by Vitor Pereira
When Wolves brought Doherty back to the club in 2023, not many would have thought that the 33-year-old would rewrite himself into the starting XI.
Under Vitor Pereira, the former Tottenham ace has come alive, starting every Premier League game since the Wolves manager’s arrival.
| Season | Apps | Starts | Minutes |
| 2023/24 | 37 | 15 | 1678 |
| 2024/25* | 26 | 19 | 1821 |
In comparison to last season’s tally of just nine league starts under Gary O’Neil, it’s been quite the turnaround for Doherty, who continues to give his all for Wolves.
Coady was complimentary of the Irishman’s growth and hard work during his time at the club, with the veteran right-back still going strong at Molineux to see his former teammates praise age tremendously.