Wolves say Terry Connor can mirror Jose Mourinho

Wolves chairman Steve Morgan today challenged Terry Connor to give him another managerial problem in the summer – by staking his claim for the job long-term.

The 49-year-old was handed the task of preserving Wolves' Premier League status until the end of the season yesterday amid mounting frustration from fans.

Morgan revealed Connor was the players' choice and believes the long-serving former assistant manager could win the job on an extended basis if he wins the battle for survival.

"At the moment it's an interim appointment but he's got a chance to stake a claim. It would be unfair to Terry to do anything other than that," said Morgan.

"I think we've got to see how Terry does. We've got 13 cup finals left."

Wolves spoke to other managers in work who could be considered in the summer.

"We've spoken to a number of high-calibre people and at another time, a number of them would be considered again," said Morgan. But it's Terry now and, at the end of the season, we'll review it.

"He hasn't been a No 1 before so it's sensible to make it a short-term appointment.

"But people like Brian McDermott, Chris Hughton and Jose Mourinho, who was Bobby Robson's No 2 at Porto, moved up.

"If Terry does half as well as Mourinho we'll all be very pleased!"

Morgan revealed Connor earned the players' vote, adding: "I'm certain we couldn't have appointed a more popular choice.

"I was at the training ground and spoke to the players. I was looking at the session and there was good banter and team spirit.

And the Wolves chairman refuted the idea that the job had become one nobody wants.

"I had to make some calls yesterday telling people they hadn't got it so I can assure you that's not the case," he said.