Jay pleads for Wolves start

Jay Bothroyd today pleaded with Mick McCarthy to unleash him on Charlton as Stephen Elliott struggles to win his fitness race.

The striker moved to front of the queue to replace Elliott with a lively performance for the reserves against Shrewsbury yesterday - scoring once as Wolves eased to a 4-1 win.

With Elliott, one of his first-choice front pairing, struggling with a torn hamstring, McCarthy has a big call to make when the Addicks visit Molineux - and Bothroyd believes he is ready to prove himself.

"I've been sharp from the start of the season. There was a lot of talk about my commitment when all that stuff happened after the Reading friendly but I have always been ready and I just want to be let loose now," he said.

"I feel strong and fit and I'm ready to play. From the first day of the season I kept my head down and worked hard and have not complained.

"Last season I was knocking on the manager's door every day saying I wanted to play but I haven't done that this time.

"I've just got on with it, even though I think I am good enough to play, because I think my football can do the talking."

Bothroyd is battling £1.5m man Freddy Eastwood in the fight to partner Andy Keogh at the weekend clash.

He has yet to start this season but McCarthy has praised his attitude and form for the reserves.

Matt Jarvis is also pressing for a first Wolves start after playing his second game since returning from injury.