Keeper Murray back in training

Wolves have received what could be a major boost after keeper Matt Murray returned to training.

The 27-year-old has returned to goalkeeping work for the first time since the second week of pre-season training after finishing a course of injections to reduce inflammation in his knee.

Murray suffered a cruciate ligament injury 15 months ago, but is now well down the road to full fitness and boss Mick McCarthy said the keeper could barely control his excitement.

"He's been doing a bit of training and has been out with Pat Mountain (goalkeping coach) for a couple of days," said McCarthy.

"He's done some ballwork and handling and was delighted with himself on Monday. He was thrilled.

"For him it's been about a state of mind because you really want to be back - it's really frustrating because you know you're only that last little bit away from being able to train.

"The last bit is a real hurdle, a real psychological barrier and I could tell how thrilled and delighted he was."

McCarthy revealed getting over the worry of any reaction is the final mental hurdle for Murray.

"If you've had an injury, it's a psychological barrier," added the boss. "You get over it by kicking a ball and the next one is a tackle - or whatever it might be for keepers, such as jumping, landing, falling and twisting.

"You're always waiting for a reaction and then one day, it's as if nothing had happened - you make a save and you land and there's no pain or twinge whatsoever and it's brilliant."