Wolves defender Ryan Bennett praises faultless Adama Traore
Ryan Bennett has hailed Adama Traore's willingness to learn in his new role – as he spoke of the 'eye-opening' trip to China.
Traore impressed at right wing-back on Wednesday as Wolves thrashed Newcastle 4-0 in the Premier League Asia Trophy.
The Spaniard wowed the local fans with a series of trademark bursting runs, but also carried out his fair share of defensive duties.
Bennett was impressed. He said: "Adama's done brilliantly, I think he's been spot on and you can't fault him at all.
"You talk to him, the manager speaks to him and everything that everyone says, he really wants to learn. He just takes it on board.
"Tracking back is a bit unusual for him but he's got stuck in. Then when he gets the ball he's devastating, so we need to try and give it him as much as we can. His attacking threat is unbelievable.
"A clean sheet was great for the team. We work on the back five a lot so it's nice to get that rhythm back."
Conditions in Nanjing were difficult for the players, with temperatures of 30C combined with stifling humidity levels of 90 per cent.
Bennett said it was a tough test – but will stand them in good stead.
"It's different in the conditions but it was good to get 90 minutes," he added.
"The season starts next week so we need that balance, getting the routines back from last year.
"You'd rather get your fitness in by playing 90 minutes than by coming off and doing some running.
"For us it worked out well, a few of the boys got some good minutes in warm conditions so it'll stand us in good stead.
"You sweat a lot more and you're not really able to cool down. When you're in the game you don't really think about it too much, you realise at times you're a bit more tired than usual."
Overall Bennett is enjoying his first time in Asia – and believes it will prepare them for next Thursday's Europa League opener.
"It's opened our eyes up a bit!" he said. "But it's exciting.
"The reaction has been surprising. The international boys are on telly all the time and get that recognition, but there are some of us that haven't played to that level and it's amazing how far the Premier League travels.
"Sometimes you open your eyes to realise how big it is when you come to places and people know your name and who you are. It took me by surprise but it's been nice.
"Being out here is part of our preparation. We've got a week left, we're putting in our patterns of play, the boys who aren't here will settle straight back in.
"We worked so hard to get to the Europa and it's our reward. We'll be ready."
