McCarthy: I was right to axe Matt Jarvis

Wolves boss Mick McCarthy today insisted he was proved right in his shock axeing of Matt Jarvis for Stephen Hunt in the win against Albion.

McCarthy gambled on dropping the England international for the first time this season and starting Hunt for the first time since January 30 against their arch-rivals.

But he was justified as Wolves won 3-1 to climb a point out of the relegation zone.

The Molineux chief was repaid spectacularly as the Ireland winger was man of the match with a tireless display which also included setting up the first two goals with corners for Steven Fletcher and Adlene Guedioura.

"Hunt in particular was outstanding," said the boss. "I know the big surprise was leaving Jarvis out but Hunt's performance spoke more eloquently about that decision than anything I could say.

"If ever there was a decision justified then thank God it was that one. If we'd lost I know the big question would have been about not playing Jarvis.

"It was about having fresh legs and people who hadn't played 30-odd games because maybe we were feeling it. In the previous four or five games I don't think Jarvis was as effective."

McCarthy added: "It would have been easy to leave Jarvis in because he's a good player and the crowd love him. But Hunt was the man for the occasion.

"Even when he's not playing particularly well he's still so effective because the tackles he made and the work he put in was superb."

Two-goal Fletcher revealed Hunt was revved up from energy drink Red Bull. "I think he had about 14 Red Bulls before the game and he's always up for it," said Fletcher.

"He was absolutely everywhere but he was brilliant and we were all delighted with him."

By TIM NASH