The Athletic’s Wolverhampton Wanderers correspondent Tim Spiers has claimed that Brazilian striker Willian Jose will not be ready in time to face Chelsea.
During the upcoming round of Premier League fixtures, the Old Gold travel to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday evening to take on the Blues in a 6pm kick-off (per Premier League).
One man who Wolves fans will likely be hoping to see in action during the top-flight clash will be 29-year-old frontman Willian Jose, due to him being a new signing.
On Saturday, it was revealed that the Molineux club had sealed the arrival of the Brazilian from Real Sociedad on loan with an option to make the move permanent (per BBC).
However, during the latest episode of The Athletic’s The Molineux View podcast, Spiers claimed that it is unlikely Willian Jose will feature against Chelsea.
When discussing players who may not be available he said: “Willian, no, I don’t think so.
“There are a few hoops to go through in terms of international clearance and getting his work permit under the new Brexit regulations.
“Speaking on Monday as we record this, he’s not in the country yet. So, I’d be surprised if he played at Chelsea.”
TIF Thoughts on what Tim Spiers said about Willian Jose…
As can be seen in what the journalist had to say, he believes the striker will not play against the Blues as he was waiting for international clearance and still not in England on Monday.
Would you be more confident ahead of the Chelsea game if Willian Jose was available?
No, won't make a difference
Yes, will have an impact
This will likely come as a blow for Wolves fans as the Old Gold have been struggling to pick up results in the league in recent months.
Over their last nine games in the Premier League, the Midlands outfit has only managed to win one game (per Transfermarkt).
However, coincidentally, that one win in the nine-match run came against Chelsea, so hopefully, the Old Gold can repeat the same feat without Willian Jose on Wednesday.