Bully says Wolves plan Premier League residency

Wolves legend Steve Bull today declared the club's £18m summer business means they intend to stay in the Premier League "for good".

But the Molineux vice-president warned the six arrivals that they face a real battle to dislodge the men who ensured top-flight status last time around.

"We're showing we want to stay in the Premier League for good," said Bully.

"I think if Kevin Doyle had left and if certain players would have gone and they wouldn't have spent, we'd have feared the worst.

"But I think Mr Morgan has his head screwed on and knows what he wants to do."

The club's record 306-goal scorer has essentially become 'Wolves royalty' since becoming an honorary board member and he believes owner-chairman Steve Morgan is serious about his long-term plan to bring lasting success and stability to Molineux.

"I think the manager has a budget to stick to I don't think there's an open chequebook," said the 45-year-old.

"But by spending the money he has including £7m on Steven Fletcher it suggests we mean business.

Redevelop

"Mr Morgan wants to stay in this league and he knows he's got to give Mick McCarthy the money.

"He wants to stay here, he wants to redevelop the ground over the next four years and he wants to keep the club in the Premier League. To do that, you've got to get it right on the field first and we're doing that."

But Bully believes the new players have a massive task to get players such as Jody Craddock and Karl Henry out of the team.

"It's going to be hard for anyone who comes in," he said. "They've got to prove themselves in a squad that got better last season, and the players already here are determined to carry that on.

"I would start the team that finished last season this time around. You're not going to have some of those first choices leave because the ones who have come in have got to fight for the shirt. That competition will make those wearing the shirts frightened for their places."

By Tim Nash