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Wolves star Raul Jimenez protected by new headgear, says Nuno

Nuno Espirito Santo has revealed ‘amazing’ Wolves striker Raul Jimenez has started wearing protective headgear – and could join Mexico for training later this month.

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Raul Jimenez of Wolverhampton Wanderers (AMA)

The 29-year-old is still not heading balls following surgery on a fractured skull but is stepping up his recovery.

A tailor-made headband is allowing him to take part in lots of group activities at Compton as he looks to play again this season.

“It’s amazing what technology does and it’s been very good. He feels comfortable with that. He’s able to do almost every action,” explained Nuno.

“It’s something that prevents any kind of contact on the skull.

“He’s not decided yet if he will wear it when he returns to competition, but now it’s the better approach for him to be more involved in training sessions. When we have clearance, let’s see if it’s OK for competition.

“There are still boxes we have to tick and we still have to avoid (heading the ball). It’s more of a protective measure.

“But he’s doing quite well and improving. He’s a fantastic boy and with all the seriousness of the situation, he never doubted. He’s always positive and with a smile. Raul is amazing.”

Wolves are also trying to facilitate Jimenez joining up with the Mexico squad for training before they face Wales on March 27 in Cardiff.

“We’ve been talking with Mexico as we feel it would be good for him to join them. We’ve been talking to doctors, to Raul,” added Nuno.

“He would see his friends as that’s a big part of his life. That would be good for him, so we’re trying to figure out the best way to do that and make it work.

“We’re taking these steps on Raul very carefully, but always with the intention to bring him back in the best way possible.”