BREAKING NEWS Cunha Returns, £14m Star Dropped: Bold Wolves XI to Face Newcastle Revealed – Shocking Decisions Ahead!

January 14, 2025

Wolves return to Premier League action with a challenging away fixture against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Wednesday night. Vítor Pereira’s side head into this clash with confidence, following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bristol City in the FA Cup, which secured their progression to the fourth round where they’ll face Blackburn Rovers. However, the Premier League remains the top priority for the Old Gold, who are precariously level on points with the relegation zone.

Pereira’s decision to field a strong team at Ashton Gate was praised by club legend Dave Edwards, as the manager sought to maintain momentum heading into a critical run of fixtures. Wolves now face one of their toughest tests of the season, with a daunting schedule that includes Chelsea, Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Liverpool in the coming weeks. Newcastle, sitting comfortably in the top half and vying for European qualification, will be a stern test for a Wolves side desperate to climb away from the relegation battle.

Wolves’ Form and Challenges

Wolves are walking a tightrope in the Premier League this season. Sitting level on points with the bottom three, every match is crucial as the club fights to secure its top-flight status. Chris Sutton’s prediction of a 3-0 loss for Wolves against Newcastle underscores the challenges Pereira’s men face, but the team has shown glimpses of promise under their Portuguese manager.

The FA Cup win against Bristol City was a morale boost, but the Premier League requires consistency and resilience, particularly against strong opponents like Newcastle. Wolves must now channel their cup performance into their league campaign, starting with a determined showing at St James’ Park.


Team News and Injury Updates

Wolves have been dealing with a slew of injuries and suspensions in recent weeks, testing the depth of Pereira’s squad. However, the manager provided positive updates ahead of the Newcastle clash:

Matheus Cunha: The Brazilian forward returns after serving a two-match suspension and is expected to slot straight into the starting lineup. With 14 goal involvements this season, Cunha remains one of Wolves’ most important players.

Nelson Semedo and Craig Dawson: Both defenders are fit to return, providing Pereira with options at the back.

Mario Lemina: The experienced midfielder is also available, though his inclusion in the starting XI is uncertain given the strong performances of João Gomes and André in midfield.

While the returning players are a boost, Pereira faces difficult decisions, particularly as some squad members impressed during the FA Cup victory. Rodrigo Gomes, in particular, caused problems for Bristol City in Semedo’s absence, while Pedro Lima delivered a solid Premier League debut. Pereira must weigh whether to reward these players with another start or bring in his returning regulars.


Predicted Lineup and Tactics

Pereira is likely to stick with the 3-4-3 formation that has become a staple for Wolves, balancing defensive solidity with attacking intent. Here’s a detailed look at how Wolves could line up:

Goalkeeper: José Sá
Despite Sam Johnstone making his first start under Pereira in the FA Cup, Sá has been Wolves’ undisputed number one in the league. The Portuguese goalkeeper is likely to return between the sticks for this crucial fixture.

Defenders: Matt Doherty, Santiago Bueno, Emmanuel Agbadou
The back three could remain unchanged after a solid display against Bristol City. Doherty provides experience and attacking support from the right, Bueno is a composed presence in the center, and Agbadou impressed on his debut with his physicality and awareness.

Wing-Backs: Rodrigo Gomes and Rayan Aït-Nouri
Rodrigo Gomes earned plaudits for his dynamic performance against Bristol City and could keep his place on the right, even with Semedo available. Aït-Nouri offers creativity and defensive cover on the left, making him a key figure in Pereira’s system.

Midfield: João Gomes and André
This duo has shown excellent chemistry in recent games, combining defensive tenacity with forward progression. While Lemina’s return adds competition, Pereira may stick with Gomes and André, who have been instrumental in recent performances.

Forwards: Gonçalo Guedes, Matheus Cunha, Jørgen Strand Larsen
Cunha’s return to the lineup is a certainty, given his importance to Wolves’ attacking output. He will likely be partnered by Jørgen Strand Larsen, who brings a physical presence and goal threat. Gonçalo Guedes, with his creativity and ability to link play, completes the front three.

Predicted XI (3-4-3): Sá; Doherty, Bueno, Agbadou; R. Gomes, Gomes, André, Aït-Nouri; Guedes, Cunha, Strand Larsen


What to Expect Against Newcastle

Newcastle’s strong home form and attacking prowess make this a challenging fixture for Wolves. The Magpies boast a dangerous attack led by Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, supported by a solid midfield and defence. Wolves must remain compact defensively, limit spaces, and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities.

Cunha’s return adds a cutting edge to Wolves’ attack, while players like Rodrigo Gomes and Aït-Nouri will be tasked with providing width and service from the flanks. Pereira’s side must also remain disciplined, as defensive lapses could be costly against a clinical Newcastle team.


The Bigger Picture

This match marks the beginning of a crucial period for Wolves. With tough fixtures on the horizon, securing points at St James’ Park would be a significant boost to their survival hopes. The challenge is immense, but the return of key players and recent positive performances offer hope. Wolves will need to show resilience, organization, and a touch of magic to defy expectations and take something from this game.

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