Wolves prepare to face Bournemouth in clash that could shake up both ends of the table

Wolverhampton Wanderers will be looking to boost their European aspirations with victory over relegation threatened AFC Bournemouth when the two sides meet on Wednesday evening.

Wolves are currently sixth but only behind Manchester United on goal difference. With fourth placed Chelsea not in action until Thursday evening, a win would allow them to close the gap to the Champions League places to just two points. They returned to action with a comfortable 2-0 away win against West Ham United on Saturday and are unbeaten in their last six league matches.

The visitors on the other hand know that a victory will move them out of the relegation zone after West Ham’s defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday evening. The Cherries’ return to action got off to a bad start as they were humbled at home by Crystal Palace. They are now winless in their last five Premier League matches, something that needs to change quickly if they are to avoid the dreaded drop.

Team news

The hosts have a clean bill of health heading into the game whilst for Bournemouth Josh King and Philip Billing face late fitness tests on ankle injuries.

Wolves manager (Nuno Espirito Santo)

“It’s a good team. I think it’s a team that plays good football, that has very good players, and Eddie is a fantastic manager. Everybody must understand that this [the Premier League]is a very tough competition, all the games are so tough and what’s happening to Bournemouth can happen to anyone. It’s a bad run and it’s very difficult to bounce back, but all the respect and admiration for Bournemouth. It’s an amazing team.

“We have a small squad, like I always insist, but it’s full of talent and quality. The idea is always the same, even if you don’t start, the way you can help the team can be fantastic. It’s more about your mindset and whether you’re prepared to take your chances when they come, and I’m happy to say we have a lot of options in this moment.”

Bournemouth manager (Eddie Howe)

“Wolves have had an outstanding season. The squad’s ability to play regularly and produce high performance levels has been really impressive. Full credit to the manager and team for that.

“It’s my job to take the pressure off the players. They’re playing the game they love and we have to enjoy the challenge that this period will bring. That’s easier said than done, but that’s what we have to do.”

Head-to-head

In their three previous Premier League meetings Wolves are unbeaten, having recorded two wins and a draw. In overall terms though, it is Bournemouth who have the better record with six wins to Wolves’ five from their 14 matches against each other. 

It remains to be seen who will come out on top but one thing is for certain, the result will go some way to shaping the course of these sides’ so far contrasting seasons.