‘Controversial’ goalkeeper swap made as O’Neil axes £16m midfielder
Here’s how we predict Wolverhampton Wanderers to line up against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
Wolverhampton Wanderers will be looking to extend their unbeaten home Premier League run to six games when they face Nottingham Forest on Saturday afternoon. Midweek, Gary O’Neil’s side won for the third time in five games, defeating Burnley 1-0 to go up to 13th place.
Forest, meanwhile, are in 16th place after being crushed 5-0 at Fulham. Manager Steve Cooper is under intense scrutiny with only one win in the previous 11 games. According to The Athletic, he is in a difficult position after being warned that his final chance is at Molineux.
Wolves will be eager to capitalize on the instability in the Forest camp, but victory will be difficult as the away support remains loyal to their manager. Here are the 11 players we believe O’Neil will start in order to give his team the best chance of winning.
1. GK – Dan Bentley
Came in for Sa against Burnley and did a superb job, making a stunning double save to keep a clean sheet. Controversial perahps given Sa is now back from injury, but we think Bentley has earned his place.
2. RWB – Nelson Semedo
Not playing at his best at the moment but isn’t threatened for his place with a whole host of full-backs unavailable.
3. CB – Max Kilman
One of the first names on the team sheet, skipper Kilman has often featured as a right-sided centre-half this campaign.
4. CB – Craig Dawson
Invaluable to Wolves due to his vast experience and leadership qualities. Also does a fine job in the air.
5. CB – Toti Gomes
Improving game after game and has become a reliable option for O’Neil at the left side of a back three.
6. LWB – Matt Doherty
With Ait-Nouri injured, Bueno a doubt and Jonny excluded from first team action, Doherty is probably the best option to put at left wing-back on Saturday.
7. CM – Mario Lemina
No stranger to a yellow card after receiving his sixth of the season against Burnley but offers Wanderers bundles of energy in midfield.
8. CM – Tommy Doyle
It could be the time for the summer signing to shine as Joao Gomes is failing to hit the heights expected of him.
9. RW – Hee-chan Hwang
The Old Gold’s top scorer with eight Premier League goals this campaign, Hwang has been a star man, to say the least.
10. LW – Pablo Sarabia
Didn’t set the world alight midweek but deserves another shot across the forward line, especially after his remarkable involvement against Spurs a few weeks back.
11. ST – Matheus Cunha
Hasn’t exactly been prolific this season when it comes to the goalscoring itself but Cunha has worked well driving at defenders and creating chances.
