Former Molineux full-back Lee Naylor believes Wolves have struck absolute gold with one of their recent signings.
Wanderers fell just short against Arsenal last Saturday, losing 2-0 at Molineux to a side chasing the Premier League title.
Despite the defeat, Wolves put in a good display against the Gunners, one that Gary O’Neil was very proud of. The manager once again had a depleted squad, and there was a first start for youngster Tawanda Chirewa.
O’Neil should be able to field a bit of a stronger side tonight against Bournemouth, with the likes Mario Lemina, Pablo Sarabia and Rayan Ait-Nouri having been rested and only used in the second-half against Arsenal.
One man who is likely to start once again though for Wolves against the Cherries is Joao Gomes, who continued his fine form at the weekend…
Lee Naylor lauds Joao Gomes and believes he plays even better for Wolves against the top sides
Gomes made his 33rd appearance of the season against Arsenal, who are reportedly a side interested in signing the Brazilian.
It was a typically energetic display from The Pitbull, as he featured alongside Tommy Doyle and Boubacar Traore.
Gomes – described as a ‘super talent’ earlier this season by Gary O’Neil – has become an established player at Molineux this season after Ruben Neves left in the summer, and has thrived in the engine room.
He’s been getting better and better since his £15 million transfer from Flamengo in January 2023, and former Old Gold full-back Lee Naylor raved about the star after the Arsenal game.
He said on Matchday Live Extra: “I just think he’s class. When he plays against the top boys, you see his class even more. I think he’s one hell of a signing for us, believe me!”
Joao Gomes has been a sensational signing
Gomes has proven to be a terrific signing so far, and it is little wonder Wolves would like to make more signings like him.
He had to be patient after arriving from Flamengo, but this season he has really come to the fore for Wolves.
You wouldn’t really know it was only his first full season in English football. He really has made a very smooth transition and looks tailor-made for the Premier League.
Gomes has had a string of top performances against ‘Big Six’ sides so far this season and does seem to be making a habit of playing well against top teams.
Wolves fans will just hope that said top teams haven’t paid too close attention to him in those moments, and that they won’t come calling for him this summer.