McCarthy suffers defensive setback

Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has a defensive injury headache ahead of the opening Barclays Premier League clash with West Ham – thanks to the international games.

Defender Christophe Berra limped out of Scotland's damaging 4-0 defeat to Norway with a hamstring problem.

That leaves him short of cover at the back if the former Hearts skipper fails to recover in time for the big kick-off.

Wolves are still hoping to tie up a deal to bring Chelsea's under-21 international Michael Mancienne back to Molineux before the weekend.

Berra's potential absence makes that even more of a priority after McCarthy decided summer signing from Marseilles Ronald Zubar needs more time to settle in England and learn the language.

That leaves veteran Jody Craddock and Mancienne's fellow England under 21 international Richard Stearman as the only two recognised centre-halves in the Wolves squad for the Hammers game at Molineux.

Record signing Kevin Doyle is another big doubt after picking up a groin injury while on duty with the Republic of Ireland.

He was substituted at half-time during his side's 3-0 defeat last night.

The £6.5m summer signing from Reading was trying to prove his fitness after a hernia operation which has interrupted his pre-season.

l Wolves have been drawn at home to Swindon in the second round of the Carling Cup with the game due to be played in the week starting August 24.