OPINION
Wolverhampton Wanderers have suffered a bit of a slump recently, which was only reinforced with their second loss on the bounce last Saturday.
They lost out to Tottenham at the Molineux 3-2, and the week before that, they were subjected to a shock 1-0 loss at the hands of Brighton at the Amex.
Their latest test is Arsenal on Sunday, and boss Nuno Espirito Santo will no doubt be hoping that his side can grab some points off a club from the Premier League top-six after already doing so against both of the Manchester outfits.
The one way that he can ensure that happens is by heeding the advice of club legend Steve Bull, who has urged the manager to stick with winger Ivan Cavaleiro for the showdown with the Gunners.
“It was the Portuguese winger’s first Premier League start and it can take a bit of time to fully adjust to the demands of a new division, so he deserves at least the clash at the Emirates to show what he is all about,” he said in the Express and Star.
“His speed and trickery could be vital against the Gunners. Unai Emery’s side are likely to have the lion’s share of possession so Cavaleiro, with his attacking prowess and improved defensive work, has the potential to be a game-changer.”
Yes, despite the fact that the 5ft 9in [Transfermarkt] speedster was not the best in the defeat to Spurs, it is important to bear in mind that it was his first league start against a talented side.
The Portuguese flyer has not played a top-flight game since his arrival in 2016, so it is best for fans to give him the benefit of the doubt.
Nuno must start him against Arsenal, as he is the one player who can cause them problems, especially with his surging runs down the flank.
He proved in the Championship last year that he has the talent to be a success at the Molineux by wowing the crowds – all he needs to do now is do it again by helping the team achieve a result on Sunday.
Either way, Cavaleiro must not be dropped after just one match, as he could be the difference between the two sides.