Express & Star

Steve Bull: Cup win would be nice for Wolves but I’d rest a few

Wolves are taking on Manchester United in the FA Cup again tonight – but I am expecting Nuno to make changes.

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Steve Bull

Having had a lot of games over Christmas, while still having the Europa League to think about, we must be careful not to burn the players out.

Of course, it would be lovely to beat United in the Cup once more at Molineux, but it is not the be-all and end-all.

For me, the importance is on keeping as many players fresh as possible before the game against Newcastle at home next weekend – and, hopefully, getting back to winning ways in the Premier League.

I thought it was ridiculous having so many games in such a short space of time over the festive period, and I am surprised nobody got hurt.

Thankfully, everyone came out of it unscathed and, points-wise, we were a bit unlucky not to get at least one more as we played very well at Liverpool.

VAR – which affected us twice up at Anfield – is killing the game, and these fine offside margins are just ridiculous.

Pedro Neto was the victim of an absurd offside call against Jonny Castro Otto as his equaliser was chalked off, but fair play to him for knuckling down and getting his first league goal at Watford.

I have been impressed with him over the past few weeks.

It is not just him either – Ruben Vinagre has been excellent, too. They are proving their worth.

Patrick Cutrone, though, has found game time hard to come by as of late.

And as a footballer, you want the highlights and first-team football.

I really like the lad, and my advice to him is to be patient.

He has got to work his socks off. Then, when he gets the chance, he has to show what he is about.

The transfer window is open again now, and I am hoping we are able to get some business done this month.

It is about getting a few fresh faces in – to create more competition, not let anyone get comfortable – as we look to keep up the momentum in the league and advance even further in the Europa by beating Espanyol next month.

If we manage to beat United tonight and get to the next round of the Cup too, that is something else to smile about. Happy New Year to you all!