Wayne Hennessey has been backed to return an even stronger goalkeeper at Wolves – by his biggest rival.

Experienced Marcus Hahnemann replaced Hennessey for Sunday’s 1-0 defeat against Birmingham.

The Wales international was given some respite after the team conceded eight in two games losing to Premier League super-powers Arsenal and Chelsea.

At 37, Hahnemann is 15 years Hennessey’s senior and he has seen it all before.

But the United States international believes the Wolves’ No 1 isn’t far behind when it comes to experience after 102 club games since his debut in the 2006-07 Championship play-off semi-final.

And he is convinced the Anglesey-born shotstopper will be better for his time-out.

“Wayne has done nothing wrong – there’s no way anyone can fault him for anything,” said Hahnemann.

“Things have happened and it was just nice to get a chance to play.

“When you’re playing Arsenal and Chelsea, you’re getting shots fired at you from all angles and it’s difficult.

“But he’ll have a break and come back stronger.

“He’s an awesome keeper, unbelievable. People forget that he’s still only 22 but he’s played 30 times for his country.

“No keepers do that by the time they’re 22, it just doesn’t happen.

“Most keepers haven’t played that often for their country until they’re 30.

“So for him to have played that much for Wales is pretty crazy.”

Hahnemann has had to wait patiently for his first Premier League game for Wolves.

But the former Reading keeper had mixed feelings after conceding the winner to Lee Bowyer’s unstoppable chip after three minutes.

“It was nice to get out and play, but I just wish it was under better circumstances,” he added.