Opinion

Wolves star could be used in new position as Vitor Pereira looks for solution to creativity issues

Wolves have struggled in creating opportunities for their forwards, but Vitor Pereira could have a unique solution.

The Old Gold have created just four big chances, the fewest in the Premier League, but they have remarkably scored from all four.

This shows the issue with their forward play is strictly in creating rather than finishing.

The arrival of Tolu Arokodare and Jhon Arias has added to their options, but there is another man who could fix their problem in creating.

Fer Lopez could be played at left wing

Rodrigo Gomes and Fer Lopez celebrating a goal
Photo by Wolverhampton Wanderers FC/Wolves via Getty Images

Fer Lopez is one of the most creative players in the squad.

The Spaniard has the highest expected assists per 90 in the Premier League, and with chances coming few and far between, it makes logical sense for him to start.

The issue then lies in where do you play him? Naturally, he is a number 10, but in the system that Pereira uses there is a heavy reliance on the midfielders defensively, and Lopez might not be up to scratch physically for that intensity.

Being deployed out wide could be another option, and he did get his first assist for Wolves while occupying the width.

He has played many games at right wing throughout his career; in fact, it is his most played position. However, Jhon Arias has come into his own lately, and his work rate is another needed asset.

That leaves the left wing.

Hwang Hee-chan has not been good for Wolves for quite some time. In truth, the Old Gold need to sign a Hwang replacement in January.

However, with the four-back system, he is the only natural left-sided attacker at the club, although Rodrigo Gomes could also be used there.

Fer Lopez could be another option out on the left, despite only playing there once during his career.

Left wing could be perfect for Fer Lopez and crossing the ball

While left and right wing are the same positions but swapped, there are a lot of differences technically for players.

Fer Lopez would be used to cutting inside on his left foot when playing out wide on the right but would have to turn outside on the opposite wing.

That could be a real asset moving forward, with Wolves having two tall and dominant strikers in their squad.

The Spaniard needing to turn outside could mean he has to cross the ball, and that will be an enticing prospect for Jorgen Strand Larsen and Tolu Arokodare.

Time will tell where Lopez fits into the new formation, but the left wing is certainly a possibility.