Wolves must match Carl Ikeme's ambition

Ikeme's contract – as well as those of Danny Batth and David Edwards – expires next summer. The 30-year-old Nigerian international has been at Wolves for 15 years.

And good friend Murray, who is proud of how Ikeme bounced back from being dropped last season, believes the Sutton Coldfield-born stopper will be a key player for Wolves in 2016-17.

Murray said: "He's still hungry, he wants to keep progressing and he'll want the club to match his ambitions because he's desperate to play in the Premier League. He loves the club to bits.

"I hope he stays at Wolves – he could be a key, key player for them next season. He's top drawer.

"With his ability, and the fact he's an international and so consistent, you could see Premier League clubs looking at him. It wouldn't be surprise to me if Wolves tried to tie him down to a deal.

"He's a specimen, a really good pro. When I came in he was 16 and I was 21 – now the age gap doesn't seem so big. I'm very proud of him and love him to bits."

Meanwhile, Murray has welcomed the signing of Andy Lonergan, a player he knows well.

The pair spent time at Lilleshall together when both recovering from injury, and have remained friends every since.

Murray said of the signing from Fulham: "He's a lovely lad, a really good pro, a very good shot-stopper and a very experienced campaigner.

"I rate him. I think it'll be a good battle. He won't come in expecting to play, but he'll believe that he can.

"Kemes would have the shirt in my opinion at the moment but there won't be much in it. They'll push each other and train well – it'll be good.

"Wolves should have the ambitions of top six minimum. Kenny Jackett (boss) needs strength in depth in every position.

"If something happens to Carl, or if Carl's having a bad time, you know Lonergan can go in."