Wolves blog: Who could be the shock star for Wolves this season?

A 1-0 win over Werder Bremen in Austria kickstarted the Nuno regime, in which he unveiled his now widely known 3-4-3 formation.

The summer was full of optimism but uncertainty after a disappointing first year under Fosun’s control.

However, there had been big signings, including the marquee signing of Ruben Neves, which increased expectations.

But what nobody expected was to see Conor Coady playing in the heart of defence.

As transfer rumours circulated the names of Coady and fellow high-performer Matt Doherty, many would have expected the affable Scouser to be departing Wolves to make way for foreign talent.

From Nuno’s first game he occupied this position, and went on to shine throughout the campaign, acting as captain in unfancied Danny Batth’s absence.

Coady operated much like the centre of a drawn bowstring, waiting to see and then execute long-range passes.

Nuno spotted this, as well as his bravery and communication skills which were vital to a solid defence that managed the highest number of clean sheets in the league.

He had operated in different positions under previous bosses – initially brought in as a central midfielder, he also featured on the right side of midfield and at right back.

He went on to cement that central spot and become Wolves’ runner-up in the Player of the Season awards.

But who is likely to follow in Coady’s footsteps this season?

The likes of Pedro Goncalves, Ryan Giles and Rafa Mir have all featured in Wolves’ pre-season so far and impressed.

But one player who has the potential to make a big impact on Wolves’ season is Kortney Hause.

He signed a new long-term contract in April, tying him to the club until potentially 2022. This is despite him playing just four times last season.

He was lauded as a potential England defender when he and Dominic Iorfa broke through under Kenny Jackett as he was brought in as a left-back.

But it is at centre back Hause’s future most likely lies – and he has shown a great attitude in staying and being willing to fight for his place.

His performance in the Carabao Cup at Man City was exceptional. His first game of the season, in from the cold among Wolves reserves against future Premier League champions City was heroic.

Unfortunately for Hause, man mountain Willy Boly holds the shirt for the left side of the back three.

But if a space opens up in defence which allows Hause to get a chance, we could see him taking and holding onto a starting berth. He certainly has the ability and appears to have a patient attitude.

If he can’t break through, he has shown at the likes of Man City that he is able to come into the team and do a good job.

Whatever happens it’s a win-win for Wolves. But I wouldn’t bet against Hause emulating Coady’s rise this season.