The Express and Star journalist Nathan Judah has aired a frustration over Nuno Espirito Santo’s use of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Daniel Podence.
Last week, the Portuguese winger returned to his native country to attend a personal issue and upon his return, had to self-isolate in accordance with the UK government guidelines (per The Telegraph).
However, the club then sought special dispensation for the 24-year-old to feature against Sheffield United on Wednesday night.
The attacker was then cleared to play against the Blades but was not brought off the bench in the end (per BBC).
So, in the latest episode of the E&S Wolves Podcast, Judah aired his frustration over how Podence was not involved at Bramall Lane.
He said: “I understand people are saying, ‘is Podence another [Patrick] Cutrone?’ Well I mean, take the position out, is there a trust issue there? I don’t think there’s a trust issue there and we haven’t seen enough of Daniel.
“At the same time, why make this song and dance of getting him back and making sure that he is okay? Even though quarantine rules, if you were doing it to the letter of the law, would have him miss that game.
“Potentially missing Everton as well, but he’s done the tests, they’ve proved it, they’ve sent the documentation. He was allowed to be on the bench for a game that’s crying out for someone on the right-hand side last night.
“Especially when Adama Traore does his shoulder in or [he] can play on either side; he can play on the left. You’ve got no Pedro Neto there. Surely, surely, surely that is the person you’re going to bring on?
“He’s still not even getting a minute of action. I do not understand that.”
TIF Thoughts…
As can be seen in what the journalist had to say, he was clearly frustrated that Podence did not feature for a single minute against Sheffield United.
Should Nuno Espirito Santo have substituted Daniel Podence on against Sheffield United?
Yes, it was obvious
No, wasn't needed
In fact, the Portuguese attacker has featured in just 42 minutes of Premier League action since he arrived at Wolves (per Transfermarkt), which would certainly suggest that he is being underused.