Wolves have been given a boost ahead of the hectic Christmas programme with the return of midfielder Mark Davies.

The young midfielder, pictured, was back in action for the reserves this week after missing the first half of the season with a cartilage injury.

McCarthy won’t rush him back into the thick of the action too soon – but is confident that he will recover his match fitness quickly.

“I’ve not seen much of Davies since I’ve been here so it was lovely to see him back. He is a talented youngster.

“The reserve game at Leicester was his first step back towards being ready for the first team. Hopefully he will be training every day now and he’ll soon be back up to speed.

“The younger you are the quicker you heal, but also the younger you are the more impatient you can be – so we have to be careful.

“But I don’t think Mark will have any setbacks. I’m not sure he is up to playing a full game for the reserves yet but he is on the right track.”

The game also featured former Celtic skipper Jackie McNamara at left-back – and his performance has given the manager food for thought ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Queens Park Rangers

McCarthy said: “It was a competitive game considering the difficult conditions.

“Jackie played well but I wouldn’t expect anything less from him. He is a very good pro and, with all the games coming up over Christmas, I’ll need everyone available. So it was good to see someone be as competitive as that.”