Shropshire Star

Back to basics the key for Wolves says embarrassed Stearman

Richard Stearman has hailed the re-emergence of Wolves' stout defence – after admitting the number of goals they were conceding had become embarrassing.

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Wolves were breached 16 times during a five-game losing streak which ran from November to the start of this month.

But they have since recovered to let in just two goals over the past four games, a run which has lifted them back into play-off contention.

Stearman believes a back to basics approach has paid dividends.

"As a defender and as a defence we were disappointed with how many we were conceding," he said. "Particularly when you consider how tight we have been over the past 12 to 18 months.

"We have gotten back to basics and are looking a mean defence again. We had to draw a line. It was becoming embarrassing for us as a defence.

"We were conceding goals and a lot of them – that is certainly uncharacteristic for us.

"We have been a mean defence and have certainly tightened up again in recent games."

Stearman was quick to sing the praises of teenage full-back duo Dominic Iorfa and Kortney Hause. Their introduction to the side has coincided with Wolves' defence tightening up and Stearman believes both have big futures.

"I have been very impressed with them," he said. "They have taken to it like they have been there for years. They have bright futures."

The players returned to Compton Park today to begin preparations for Saturday's FA Cup third round meeting with Fulham. Wolves were 1-0 winners at Craven Cottage in the league earlier this season but Stearman is expecting a different proposition this time around.

"It won't be an easy game," he said. "We managed to turn them over down there but they have shot up the league since.

"At least we have had a few days rest and there is not another game in 48 hours as there was over Christmas."

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