Wolves boss Mick McCarthy today defended his side after Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Everton, insisting he was “delighted” with their performance.

McCarthy’s men suffered their seventh defeat in their last nine Premier League games at Goodison on Saturday.

Now they face trips to Chelsea and Manchester United in between a home game against Sunderland on December 4.

Wolves failed to force a single save out of Everton keeper Tim Howard and, apart from Stephen Hunt’s first-half penalty, didn’t create a chance until off-target shots from substitute Steven Fletcher and Jamie O’Hara at the death when they were 2-1 down.

Hunt put them ahead before Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines’ penalty saw them trailing.

Wolves rarely looked in danger from open play, however, and McCarthy was happy with their display.

“We didn’t really light up the sky for everybody with flowing football and create plenty of chances, but away from home I’m not sure that’s going to happen too much,” said the boss.

“I felt alright about the performance and I didn’t ‘give it out’ to the lads.

“As an away side at Everton, I think we played well.

“We could have been better with the ball but in terms of the organisation, shape and defensive performance we did well.

“We kept the ball in the first half and I was delighted. We could have been a bit better in possession and caused them a few more problems.

“Maybe a few weeks ago I might have been frustrated at some of the things we were doing but we played well as an away team.”

McCarthy feels the momentum generated from the draw against Swansea, the 3-1 win against Wigan plus the two encouraging performances in defeat at Manchester City hasn’t evaporated.

“It makes it easier for us getting back in today to know we’ve played well, but we want some points,” he said.

“If we were playing badly and getting beaten we’d be in real trouble but that’s not the case.”

• Michael Kightly’s loan at Watford has been extended until January 3.