David Edwards wants the hard role

Fit-again David Edwards has pledged to save manager Mick McCarthy a fortune in the transfer market and become Wolves' midfield 'enforcer.'

With Mancienne out indefinitely with patella tendon problems, McCarthy recently missed out on Steve Sidwell, who chose to move to Fulham, and saw long-term target Guirane N'Daw join Real Zaragoza from St Etienne.

Wolves, who are desperately trying to use their one remaining Premier League loan, enquired about Stoke's Glenn Whelan while McCarthy has been linked with Tottenham's Jamie O'Hara and Grant Leadbitter from Ipswich this month.

Now the Wales international, who turns 25 next week, has volunteered for anchorman duties with concerns growing over Michael Mancienne.

Edwards has made his name as an attacking midfielder, but has adapted to different positions in his three years at Molineux.

He said: "I'm starting to understand the game a little bit more and I don't mind a tackle. Against Chelsea, the gaffer asked me to play a lot more disciplined role and I thought I did that.

"I don't think I went into the opposition box which is probably the first time in my career that's happened."

Edwards' return was one of the few highlights of Tuesday's 2-0 reserve defeat against Albion.

After a nightmare year riddled with ankle, thigh and hamstring injuries and a sickness bug, the former Shrewsbury man is relieved to be ready to make his senior comeback in Sunday's FA Cup fourth round tie at home to Stoke.

Fellow comeback men Jody Craddock, Steven Mouyokolo, George Elokobi and Sam Vokes are also back in the mix for Sunday.

Edwards said: "It's a big boost because it gives the gaffer options when we've got three games in a week.

"He might have to rotate the squad and we'll all be ready to play a part."