Wolves are gearing up to host Chelsea at Molineux this weekend in a crucial Premier League encounter, with manager Rob Edwards anticipated to implement four changes to the starting line-up. This strategic reshuffle comes in the wake of consecutive 2-0 defeats against Manchester City and Bournemouth, as the team aims to bounce back and secure a positive result against Champions League hopefuls Chelsea.
Post-Strand Larsen Era Begins
The match marks the beginning of a new chapter for Wolves, following the departure of striker Jorgen Strand Larsen. The Norwegian forward exited the club in a significant transfer deal worth £43 million, with potential add-ons of £5 million, making it one of the standout transactions of the recent window. Strand Larsen managed only one league goal in his final six months at Molineux, and his sale for nearly double the £25 million Wolves paid to make his loan permanent last summer represents a shrewd piece of business on paper for Edwards' side.
Attacking Options Under Scrutiny
With Strand Larsen gone, attention now turns to Wolves' attacking alternatives. Summer signing Tolu Arokodare has expressed his desire to be more clinical in front of goal, while there is also speculation that Adam Armstrong could lead the line. Armstrong, a mid-season acquisition known for his goal-scoring prowess in the Championship with Southampton, will be eager to improve upon his previous Premier League records with Southampton and Newcastle, aiming to prove he can trouble top-flight defences.
Predicted Line-Up Analysis
Ahead of kick-off, here is a detailed look at how Wolves are likely to line up against Chelsea, with Edwards expected to make key adjustments across the pitch.
Goalkeeper and Defence
GK: Jose Sa: Wolves successfully fended off late interest from Nottingham Forest to retain Sa, who is poised to start ahead of Sam Johnstone. Johnstone himself attracted surprise attention from Tottenham during the winter window, but Sa's experience should see him between the posts.
RB: Jackson Tchatchoua: The Cameroon international is set to replace Rodrigo Gomes in the wing-back role, potentially facing a tough challenge against former Wolves favourite Pedro Neto, who now lines up for Chelsea.
CB: Yerson Mosquera: The Colombian defender retains his place in the backline as Wolves target their third clean sheet of the campaign, aiming to shore up a defence that has conceded in recent outings.
CB: Santiago Bueno: The 27-year-old centre-back keeps his spot in a familiar-looking trio, having contributed two goals in 15 matches this season, adding an offensive threat from set-pieces.
CB: Ladislav Krejčí: The versatile 26-year-old has been one of the few players to earn praise this season and is likely to maintain his position in the starting XI, offering stability and flexibility.
LWB: David Moller Wolfe: The Norwegian wing-back has yet to reach peak form for Wolves but provided two assists in the Carabao Cup match against Chelsea, which could give him the edge over Hugo Bueno for this fixture.
Midfield and Attack
CM: Angel Gomes: The former Manchester United midfielder could be handed his first start since joining from Marseille, coming in to replace the impressive teenager Matheus Mane, as Edwards looks to inject fresh creativity.
CM: João Gomes: The energetic Brazilian is expected to start in central midfield, tasked with nullifying the threats posed by Chelsea stars such as Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandes, using his tenacity and work rate.
CM: Andre: The 24-year-old Brazilian is likely to partner with his compatriot in the middle of the park, forming a dynamic duo aimed at controlling the tempo and disrupting Chelsea's rhythm.
ST: Hwang Hee-chan: The South Korean international is set to retain his place in attack, where he will look to unsettle Chelsea's defence with his pace and movement, hoping to add to his goal tally.
ST: Adam Armstrong: The new signing could make his debut against Chelsea, bringing confidence from a strong Championship season with Southampton. Armstrong will be keen to demonstrate that he can translate his goal-scoring form to the Premier League, providing Wolves with a much-needed offensive spark.
This predicted line-up reflects Edwards' intent to revitalise the team after recent setbacks, with a blend of experience and new faces aiming to secure a vital result against a formidable Chelsea side. The changes highlight a focus on defensive solidity and attacking potency, as Wolves strive to climb the Premier League table and end their losing streak.
