McCarthy pleased with two left backs

Wolves have revealed they always wanted to sign two left-backs after completing the deadline swoops of Matt Hill from Preston and George Friend from Exeter.

Hill has signed for three-years, Friend two plus a one-year option after terms and undisclosed fees were agreed following successful medicals. Stephen Elliott has signed a three-year deal at Preston.

Hill, 27, was set to make his debut in a noon friendly at Compton against Coventry reserves.

Friend is 20, 6ft 1ins tall and helped the Grecians back to the Football League in last season's play-off final. He has played just 37 Blue Square Premier and League games, but he has had the scouts flocking to watch him and had been linked with West Ham.

Boss Mick McCarthy revealed it was always his intention to sign two left-backs, saying: "We always wanted a left-back when George Elokobi was fit, so when he got injured, we needed two and that's what we've done."

Challenge

Hill recently lost his place to Callum Davidson at left-back, but is confident new surroundings will see him return to his best form.

"I'm delighted to be here," he said. "It's a fresh start for myself and a new challenge at a club which wants to go places. Alan Irvine (Preston manager) gave me the option to come and speak to Wolves and I'm glad I've done so and I'm really happy.."

McCarthy said: "Matt is a good and solid left-back who we had watched before we signed George Elokobi.

"When George was injured we made an enquiry to see if Matt was available and got a positive response from Preston.

"He has played over 300 first team games and at 27 is in his prime."

The signing of Jason Shackell earlier yesterday sees an end to Wolves' interest in Sunderland's Danny Higginbotham, who has rejoined Stoke.

l McCarthy has been nominated for the Championship's Manager of the Month award.