Wolverhampton Wanderers supporters have highlighted Joao Moutinho as the most important player in the Old Gold’s squad.
Nuno Espirito Santo has a number of key players through the spine of his team, with: Raul Jimenez, Ruben Neves and Willy Boly, when fit, all honourable mentions.
However, with the question posed to the Molineux faithful (via Wolves Live), many fans highlighted their 33-year-old, Portuguese middleman as the most vital.
5ft 7 of footballing heaven . He drives us forward and breaks play up so much …most of counters are usually caused by joao
— chrispalomba (@chrispalomba1) November 14, 2019
Joao Moutinho
— L_apaya (@lewis21074) November 14, 2019
Joao.
— Benjimon (@benfellows1980) November 14, 2019
Moutiniho, runs our midfield
— Daz Cash (@DazCash) November 15, 2019
Moutinho, who is valued at £9 million (as per Transfermarkt), has laid on 15 goals for teammates and has bagged one for himself in 66 appearances (as per Transfermarkt).
While the spelling of Moutinho’s name eluded many, they were clear on the overall impact he has on the team.
Mortiniho. Genius
— Carole Teraud (@CTeraud) November 15, 2019
Moutinia simple
— David Cowley (@daveofsmeg) November 14, 2019
Joao Mantinho
— Pat Cross (@patswolves) November 14, 2019
What do we think?
While there are strong cases for the likes of Jimenez and Boly, who are key at either end of the pitch, it is difficult to look past the man who pulls the strings in the middle.
With an impressive average rating of 7.13/10 in the Premier League so far this term (per Whoscored), it is clear to see why so many of the Old Gold’s fan base had him outlined for appreciation.