Express & Star

Wolves hero Raul Jimenez: We can match big boys

Raul Jimenez believes Wolves have the quality to compete in the Premier League this season after enjoying a ‘dream debut’.

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Raul Jimenez had a dream debut for Wolves

The 27-year-old headed in an equaliser 10 minutes from time to earn a 2-2 draw against Everton on Saturday.

And after lighting up Molineux with his goal, the Mexican international cannot wait to test himself in the league again, against 2016 champions Leicester City this weekend.

“That is how I dreamt my debut,” said Jimenez. “It is amazing to score here in the Premier League. Bravo the team, bravo the people and I think we will keep working and looking forward to better results in the league.

“I saw Ruben (Neves) with the intention of crossing the ball and I went to head the ball when I saw it was in the net, it was amazing to see all the people screaming and to see all the stadium like that.”

Jimenez impressed on debut – not only for his goal, but also with his work-rate – and after netting the leveller did not celebrate so he could grab the ball and Wolves go in search of a winner.

“Yes, we wanted to make another goal,” he said. “I want to work hard all season.

“I am a footballer where in every game up to the 90th minute, I go for all the balls until to the end, and that is the reason I have good things in the match,” he added.

Though Jimenez admitted Wolves made some mistakes in the game, he said they will redouble their efforts on the training ground to make improvements. And he believes there is enough quality in the squad to compete in England’s top flight.

“We all see each other in the dressing room and we know that we have a lot of quality and it is just keep working and let’s show that we are a good team,” he said.

Jimenez was brought to Wolves this summer, with the club having an option to buy him at the end of the season. And he was delighted with the move and to be playing England’s top flight.

He said: “I always follow the Premier League and I think it is the best league in the world and it is a pleasure to be playing here.”