Podcasts

Wolves: Dean Ashton blasts signing of ‘clown’ Diego Costa

|
Image for Wolves: Dean Ashton blasts signing of ‘clown’ Diego Costa

Former Premier League striker Dean Ashton has admitted he was ‘amazed’ by Wolves’ decision to recruit Diego Costa – who he has branded a ‘clown’.

Costa was brought to Molineux in September after the club’s injury woes continued in attacking areas.

Raul Jimenez hasn’t been seen since pulling up in the warm-up against Southampton while the £15.5m summer signing Sasa Kalajdzic actually suffered an ACL injury in the first half as Jimenez’s replacement that same day.

Costa has started each of the club’s last five matches but will now serve a three-game suspension following a red card for headbutting Ben Mee at Brentford last Saturday.

Speaking on the talkSPORT GameDay podcast host Sam Matterface was discussing Wolves’ problems in front of goal and whether managerial candidate Julen Lopetegui would be able to solve them.

He said: “No Costa up front this weekend, he’s been suspended after his first-ever Premier League red card. So what’s the solution to problems and can Lopetegui find one?

To which Ashton quickly replied:

“He’s not the answer. He’s a clown. So I was amazed they even went for him.”

TIF Thoughts on Ashton’s comments…

Was Costa a pointless signing for Wolves?

Yes!

Yes!

No!

No!

Despite 416 minutes of action, Costa is yet to register a goal or an assist in a Wolves jersey.

It is not for the want of trying, though, with the 34-year-old leading his teammates in terms of shots per game this season (2.7).

Nevertheless, considering the Brazilian was without a club since January 2022 before arriving in the Black Country, his lack of form can perhaps be expected.

According to WhoScored, only youngsters Chem Campbell and Joseph Hodge, who have played 69 and 78 minutes respectively, have averaged a lower match rating than Costa (6.11) at the club, and with Jimenez likely to be back after Christmas, this short-term fix certainly hasn’t worked out.

Share this article