Don Goodman: Wolves ‘would cruise into top half of Prem’

Nuno Espirito Santo’s team romped to the Championship title with 99 points.

Their ranks have already been boosted for the club’s Premier League return by the captures of Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio and Mexican striker Raul Jimenez on loan from Benfica.

Sky Sports co-commentator Goodman saw plenty of Nuno’s team last season – and he thinks that even before any additions are made, Wolves are good enough for a top 10 Premier League finish.

“If Wolves were playing with exactly the same squad as last year, in last year’s Premier League, which I saw a lot of; I think they would be absolutely certain to be in the top half,” he said. “They are way better than some of the teams at the bottom of the Premier League, but obviously all those teams that survived will try to recruit and strengthen.

“As well as that, the teams that have come up will have to do the same if they want to compete.

“We don’t know how hard the league will be next year but I’ve got no doubt whatsoever that last year’s Wolves squad in that Premier League would be absolutely cruising.”

Despite Goodman’s bold claim, the former striker still thinks Wolves need to strengthen their squad in a number of areas. “In terms of where they need to strengthen, the spine is a good place to start,” he added.

“They need a central defender; they definitely need a striker that can bang in the goals. The wing back system is so pivotal as well and if one of those lads (Barry Douglas and Matt Doherty) get injured, who replaces them? So I think they could do with a player that can play both sides there.”