Wolves boss Nuno delighted as Daniel Podence shines on first league start
Nuno Espirito Santo has praised £17million man Daniel Podence for shining on his first league start and helping Wolves to a convincing win over Everton.
Podence seized his long-awaited opportunity as he won the penalty that Raul Jimenez converted to open the scoring before goals from Leander Dendoncker and Diogo Jota saw them run out 3-0 victors at Molineux.
The Portuguese forward – snapped up from Olympiacos in January – really caught the eye as Wolves reignited their push for Europe, and Nuno said: "I think he played good.
"Daniel is a talented player. He was able to help the team. He arrived later, everybody knows, and he was getting his moments – getting ready.
"It's all about that, trying to use the players in the right moments, so we can take advantage of the quality they have.
"This is what it's all about. This is the message to our squad. I know players sometimes get upset and don't understand our decisions so much, but it's up to us to motivate as the chance is going to come.
"It's about how ready you are to help the team when it's required."
Podence – making something out of nothing – danced his way into the box before being hacked down by Lucas Digne for the spot-kick.
He also went close to scoring on a couple of occasions, and Nuno admits he brings fresh qualities to the side.
"Not only him. We have Pedro (Neto), Diogo (Jota), Adama (Traore), and they are totally different," said Nuno.
"When you have to make decisions, you look at your opponents and what changes the game is the characteristics of the players.
"Daniel and Pedro did very well at recognising the space to unbalance Everton."
Ruben Neves – who also shone against the Toffees – was happy to see his compatriot impress, too.
"He's a great player. He showed before in the games he played. I'm really happy for him, everyone is really happy for him," said Neves.
"He's a great player and had the patience to wait for his chance. He showed that we have a great squad and everyone is ready for the game.
"He had a great game, and it was really good for us."
Meanwhile, Nuno took the time to address a national report over the weekend which stated he was set to pen a contract extension until 2023.
The Portuguese, who has always been relaxed over the matter and is expected to sign fresh terms eventually, said: "It's not true.
"I've read it, and it's not true. I have a contract. I still have one more year on my contract."
