Wolves can only hope their internationals have more luck on their side when they return to Coca-Cola Championship action tomorrow – and the message from Sam Vokes and Chris Iwelumo is they will be back with a point to prove.

Vokes’ own goal for Wales Under-21s sealed England’s progress to the European Championship finals at his country’s expense, and Iwelumo’s Scotland debut ended in ignominy when he missed an open goal in a frustrating World Cup qualifying stalemate against Norway at Hampden Park. 

Eighteen-year-old Vokes, who also hit a post as Wales were held 2-2 and lost on aggregate, is confident he and Iwelumo will be in the right frame of mind as Wolves bid to return to the top of the table at home to neighbours and fellow promotion hopefuls Coventry. 

With leaders Birmingham facing an awkward trip to Burnley and third-placed Reading also away in Lancashire, at Preston, Wolves’ reward for a home win may be substantial. 

Vokes is optimistic – for himself, Iwelumo and Wolves. “I think Wolves strikers have had it unlucky this week. But big Chris scores goals for fun – so it’s not going to affect him,” he said. 

“He’s a great player and did well to get his debut, and I hope he can go on from that. I hope I can do the same – because I’ve definitely learned a lot. 

“Playing against top-class players in front of a big crowd can only help your game.” 

Mick McCarthy’s men will need Vokes, Iwelumo and plenty more back on song as they bid to get back on track. 

They trail their Midlands rivals by two points. 

Iwelumo has missed Wolves’ last three matches through suspension and will return to a team also set to feature fit-again Michael Kightly and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake.