Ikeme set to push Dorus all the way as Wolves No. 1

Carl Ikeme will go head-to-head with Dorus De Vries for the Wolves No.1 jersey – after tomorrow's clash against Manchester City.

Ikeme had his first day's full training yesterday since a toe ligament injury which forced him back from his loan spell at Doncaster.

Wolves cut his loan short after Wayne Hennessey was ruled out for six months with a torn cruciate ligament.

Ikeme has played far more games this season – 25 in the Championship on loan at Middlesbrough and Doncaster – than he has in any campaign. And boss Terry Connor is confident Ikeme will push De Vries all the way for the first choice slot.

"We know exactly what he's been doing, we know his record and he'll be challenging Dorus," said Connor.

"I think Carl's a really good keeper and he's developing well."

De Vries, meanwhile, has been told to seize his moment tomorrow.

"He had to play some time and he's been working diligently for the last nine months waiting for his chance," said Connor.

"There are times when he's been frustrated because he wanted to play, like every player, but now his chance has come and I've said to him: 'This is your moment, this is what you've been training for, so go and act like Dorus de Vries'."

De Vries moved from Swansea in the summer supposedly as a step up but, with the Swans safe, the 31-year-old looks to be heading back to the Championship.

"Dorus wanted a new challenge; he felt he'd gone as far as he could do at Swansea," said the boss.

"He wanted to prove his worth this season."

"Wayne has performed particularly well, so his chances have been limited.

"But he knew what he was doing when he came, and he was up for the challenge.

"He'll want to give a good account because he's a first-choice keeper.

"All that will be in his mind is helping us beat Man City."