Danny Batth has a chance to push Wolves claims

The 22-year-old was set for his second full appearance in the Championship with today's visit of Leeds at Molineux after a solid performance in the 2-1 defeat at Leicester nine days ago.

Batth's belated chance has come with Johnson banned for three games after his sending off against Blackpool.

Johnson sat out the second match of his suspension this afternoon and completes his scheduled exile with next Saturday's trip to Derby.

The £4m former Birmingham defender is then available for the trip to Barnsley on Tuesday, February 19.

And although he is also focusing on two loan targets, boss Dean Saunders believes Batth could make the position his own.

"If Danny plays well and we win and I think he's done well then he will keep his place," said Saunders. "I've been trying to get some players in, and, while I'm working on that, Danny has an even better chance.

"He's a good lad and I know he's going to give everything."

"I don't expect him not to ever make mistakes because he's a young lad, but he's one of those you don't lose any sleep over."

Saunders admitted he would hand Batth and fellow youngsters Matt Doherty and Anthony Forde extended chances if Wolves were safe in mid-table rather than the club being in a relegation battle.

"Ideally we'd like to be halfway up the league and we could find out how good they are by giving them all a chance," he said. "But it's not an ideal time when you're trying to get away from the bottom of the league."