Kevin Foley knows his place at Wolves

Wolves utility man Kevin Foley today admitted his versatility may have cost him games this season.

The 27-year-old returned at right-back in Saturday's goalless draw at Sunderland – his first involvement of any kind for five matches after being out of the squad altogether for the previous three outings.

Prior to his recent absence, the Ireland international was playing in a defensive midfield role.

Appearances in his favoured right-back role have also been restricted, as former boss Mick McCarthy opted for the extra height of Richard Stearman or Ronald Zubar there.

And 2008-09 Player of the Year Foley, who missed much of the first half of the campaign injured after undergoing ankle surgery in October, admits it's been a frustrating time.

He said: "Having the injury in the first half of the season was frustrating.

"But I have also had Ronald Zubar and Richard Stearman as competition for a place in my favourite position, right-back.

"I have been in and out of the side more than in the past and even had a couple of matches recently when I wasn't in the 18.

"They are the times when you need to show your support for the other lads.

"I have played some games in midfield and maybe not having one position has cost me a place, at times, behind lads who are specialists in one role."

Meanwhile, Foley was relieved to be part of a defence that kept a clean sheet for the first time in 31 games, after being reunited with the old Championship back four at Sunderland.

He said; "We have been crying out for a clean sheet for a long while.

"It would have been more useful if it had come a few games earlier, but we have something to build on.

"Life certainly becomes easier when you're not conceding goals.

"It breeds confidence and gives you something to hold on to."

See also:

• Wolves put faith in youngsters

• Christophe Berra prepared for Wolves shake-up