Mel Eves: Jeff Shi promotion proof Fosun want success for Wolves

A boardroom reshuffle will see Shi relocate to the Midlands and take a more hands-on role at Molineux, having previously been based in his native China.

Wolves favourite Mel Eves reckons the move is a big step in the right direction from Fosun after a disappointing first year since their takeover last summer, giving Shi the chance to fully understand the club’s ‘DNA’ and change the culture he believes has been a factor in years of underachievement.

“I think it is first class news,” said League Cup-winner Eves. “We had a situation previously, under Sir Jack Hayward, when the owner was based abroad and was relying on others to tell him what was going on.

“Jeff Shi will have had that last year. You never quite know who might be in certain meetings and there is an element of having to take people’s word for it.

“If he is based at Molineux he will get a far better idea of what is going on and the kind of work which needs doing. It will also give him a better understanding of the community and the Wolves DNA if you like.

“I think it can only be a good move and is a sign of commitment from Fosun that they want to put things right. It should be a real positive.”

Despite an outlay of close to £30million on players, Wolves finished 15th in the Championship, while Fosun’s first year at the helm has seen no fewer than three managerial departures. Former Porto boss Nuno Espirito Santo last month became their third appointment as head coach.

Eves added: “It has been a sharp learning curve for them but with Jeff Shi now being more hands-on they should be able to get a better idea on what they are facing. To this point you would say too much of what they have done has been on the hoof. This is now a change to start changing the whole culture of the place.”

Wolves were today poised to unveil their kit for next season. Visit expressandstar.com for pictures.