Wolves suffered yet another setback over the weekend, slumping to a 3-1 defeat against Leeds United at Molineux that left fans furious and pundits puzzled by Vitor Pereira’s team selection.
The result means Wolves are still rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table, pointless and under growing pressure. Supporters voiced their anger loudly, with boos ringing out at both half-time and full-time, and chants aimed directly at Fosun, a clear sign of frustration with the ownership.
Wanderers had actually gone in front through Ladislav Krejci, but rather than building on the advantage, they retreated and allowed Leeds to dictate play. Given Wolves’ shaky defending this season, the outcome felt inevitable. Three soft goals were conceded before the break, effectively sealing the contest.
While questions remain about the quality of Wolves’ squad, the depth available to Pereira should, in theory, give him options. But his decisions against Leeds left many scratching their heads, particularly the omission of Matt Doherty and David Moller Wolfe.
Former Wolves defenders Lee Naylor and Andy Thompson, speaking on Matchday Live Extra, were baffled.
Naylor: “I don’t understand how Doc wasn’t even in the squad. He’s someone who brings leadership, whether by talking or simply leading by example. We’ve spoken about Agbadou’s strengths, but a lot of that last year was having Doc alongside him.”
Thompson: “We were both surprised. That first Leeds goal? Doc probably deals with that header. He’s strong in the air, and that makes a difference.”
Naylor: “Exactly. I’m not saying he’s the solution to all our problems, but he gives the team balance. We look a stronger unit with him on the pitch.”
The decision to leave Doherty out entirely was particularly shocking given how Pereira has previously relied on him. The Republic of Ireland international has been a steady presence on the right side of defence, and last season even earned praise from the manager for his character after stepping up to take a crucial penalty in the FA Cup.
Yes, Doherty’s form hasn’t been great in the opening weeks of the campaign—but then again, neither has anyone else’s. To exclude one of the few vocal leaders in the dressing room altogether looks like a gamble from Pereira, and one that Wolves may not be able to afford in their current predicament.