Nuno salutes Nelson Semedo for Wolves defensive work
Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo has praised wing-back Nelson Semedo for showing his versatility and putting in a ‘great effort’ at Chelsea.
The summer signing from Barcelona has taken time to adjust but put in a top display as Wolves drew 0-0 at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.
He impressed at right-wing-back in the first half before moving over to the left in the second and looking just as solid – after Rayan Ait-Nouri was forced off with a knock and Ki-Jana Hoever introduced.
And Nuno is hoping for more of the same from Semedo at Crystal Palace tomorrow.
“Ever player needs time because the Premier League is very demanding – the opponents you face on a weekly basis,” he said.
“It’s always against high-quality players, and Nelson is aware of that.
“Against Chelsea, he started on the right and then Rayan could not continue, so we changed him to the left side and he was able to immediately adapt.
“So, I’m happy with that aspect of his game. Ki also came in and did well.
“We’re still unbalanced as it’s not our idea to keep insisting Nelson on the left-hand side. But he did a great effort for the team.”
Semedo will now be looking to show his worth on a consistent basis.
He endured a difficult first few months after moving from the Nou Camp to Molineux for an initial £27.5million – the deal also including various bonuses
With Ait-Nouri’s knock and Marcal and Jonny Castro Otto still out for now, Semedo could continue on the left flank at Palace. Nuno is a fan of his ability to play on either side, too.
“Especially during the game when these circumstances happen – without Marcal and Jonny, and then Rayan,” said Nuno.
“Having full-backs that can go both sides is always a helpful situation.”
