What Jean-Ricner Bellegarde just told Vitor Pereira explains his ‘difficult’ Wolves struggles

Wolves beat rivals Aston Villa to earn bragging rights and three crucial points, with an unlikely hero emerging from the match.

Vitor Pereira branded Jean-Ricner Bellegarde a ‘fantastic surprise’ after Wolves’ 2-0 win over Aston Villa.

The Frenchman was selected to start as Pereira made several changes to his squad, with Bellegarde replacing Joao Gomes in midfield.

While some had initial concerns over Bellegarde’s position in the starting lineup, all doubts were retracted after 90 minutes as the 2023 signing ran the show.

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Jean-Ricner Bellegarde reacts to Wolves win over Aston Villa

Bellegarde and Matheus Cunha were the goalscorers on what was an evening to remember for Wolves.

The derby win was capped off as Cunha signed a new contract however, nothing must be taken away from Bellegarde’s performance. 

Playing in midfield, the 26-year-old not only scored but was unstoppable at times, playing arguably one of his best games in the Old Gold. 

After the win, the Frenchman hinted at why he had such a good game, sending a subtle message to Pereira regarding his best position.

“The gaffer told me I could help the team as a midfielder,” Bellegarde said.

“I played in midfield last time in last season and I know this position, I’m very comfortable in this position but I can’t play [there] a lot, it’s difficult for me but today was good for me and I’m enjoying [playing there].”

Gary O’Neil’s signing admitted that it’s difficult for him to play in midfield often but, made it clear that in the middle is where he’s most effective, which in turn explains his poor form.

Bellegarde needed a big performance after recent criticism 

Wolves fans were wowed by Bellegarde against Villa but, it’s been a rarity that the Frenchman has impressed since his arrival at Molineux. 

Before his exit, O’Neil started to lose trust in Bellegarde, rarely handing his signing a spot in the starting XI, which didn’t change when Pereira arrived. 

Wolves supporters have also taken aim at Bellegarde throughout this season, with the hope that the 26-year-old has reached a turning point in his Premier League career. 

For now, Pereira must work out how to best utilise his player, with the evidence there to suggest that Bellegarde’s best position is clear.