Wolves boss Nuno ready for another 'special' derby against Aston Villa

Nuno's pack are looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat at Liverpool as they take on Dean Smith's side, who had last weekend off because of Newcastle's Covid-19 issues.

Without fans, there will not be the same raucous atmosphere as previous matches between the two teams, but the Wolves chief says his charges remain 'fully aware' of just how important this one is.

"Aston Villa is a good team, a very good team," said Nuno.

"They have a very good manager and are full of talented players – it's a good squad.

"They've been playing good football, so this is what we focus on. We know we're going to face a very tough opponent.

"We are fully aware of what it means to play against Aston Villa. It's always a big match and means a lot to our fans.

"Unfortunately, they will not be in Molineux to give us a push, but for sure they'll be supporting at home and wishing us the best. We have to compete with all our strength.

"It's a difficult game. It will require from us consistency through the actions, the unit compact, and taking advantage when we have the ball with the talented players we have – having good possession to unbalance Villa.

"We expect a very tough game, for sure, and a very enthusiastic game. It's a derby and they're always special."

Wolves will be without long-term absentees Raul Jimenez, whose presence at Compton this week has lifted spirits, and Jonny Castro Otto.

Nuno, though, insists they have no fresh injury worries.

Asked about Villa captain Jack Grealish, he said: "I think he's a very good player. He's been showing that – not only this season, but the other ones.

"He's full of talent and a very good player."

And on if every team would like a player like Grealish, Nuno added: "No, I have my players and I'm happy with them.

"We have our own players with characteristics we have to improve. I'm only focused on how we can make our players better."