Dave Edwards: Youngsters key to Wolves revival next season

Read the latest Wolves column from Dave Edwards.

Following last week’s start at Brighton, a reaction was needed from the Wolves players in the final home game of the season.

It was important they started fast to get the atmosphere going at Molineux and the players had a real intent about them, which we haven’t seen in recent weeks.

Maybe some of the public comments about the players has hurt them, but there was a distinct change in attitude and I think the fans were grateful that it started fast.

We were on the front foot, limited Fulham to half chances and we looked a lot more dangerous going forward.

I think the system helped us to a degree. We defended with a back five but then when we had the ball, it shuffled into more of a 4-2-3-1 with Rodrigo Gomes playing higher up on that right-hand side.

It meant there were more bodies higher up the pitch to support Adam Armstrong and the opening goal was well worked, with a terrific strike from Mateus Mane.

Wolves deserved it and in those moments you want them to put their foot on the gas like they did against West Ham at home and go and get that second goal.

Fulham were there for the taking but, like we have seen in other games this season, Wolves were unable to capitalise.

There was a little bit of naivety from young Mane for the equaliser, not knowing his surroundings and swinging a boot blind and catching the Fulham player.

It was definitely a penalty, I can't believe the referee didn't give it straight away. It was an obvious one and it’s another example of how VAR is really affecting referees' decision-making.

Robinson steps up and dispatches it and the timing of it was not great.

However, Wolves came out in the second half trying to win the game and they had the better chances with Armstrong hitting the post, Yerson Mosquera’s big chance with the header and a few other half chances.

The frustration from the fans at the final whistle was probably because they felt it was two points dropped, but it was definitely a step in the right direction after a disappointing few weeks.

R.Gomes was the star performer on the day. His energy was terrific and really helped Wolves.

There were times he lost the ball, but he injects a real enthusiasm into Wolves' performance and helps us get on the front foot.

His running was relentless on that right-hand side. Every time I thought that his race was run and he wouldn't be able to do any more, he would have a few breaths and he'd be off again.

He'll be so important next year. That sort of energy, pace and intent will go a long way in the Championship and he'll be a better version of himself next year.

I imagine he'll be playing a very key role next season, just like Mane will do as well, with Rob Edwards and the player both speaking publicly and saying he will stay at the club.

It’s a really good sign that Wolves aren't going to sell all their assets and I think it is the best thing for Mane.

The Championship is tough, but he’ll play a lot of football and get a lot of chances and it could be a big season for him.

It could also elevate his value even more, but more importantly he could inspire Wolves to finish at the top end of the table, which isn’t going to be easy.

Players like Mane and R.Gomes will give Wolves an edge next season, alongside the rest of the recruitment that needs to be done.

Talking of signings, Raul Jimenez was serenaded by the home fans on the weekend and has said there is a possibility of him returning.

I was surprised to hear that, but at 35-years-old he has scored nine Premier League goals this season and if there is any chance Wolves can bring him back, they have to take it.

Sometimes people say you should never go back, but his quality and experience would be huge for Wolves next season and it would revitalise the crowd.

With the number of games in the league and cups, Wolves can rotate at the top end of the pitch and Jimenez will get chances to score goals.

I’d love to see him return and although there will be interest from elsewhere too, it would be a wonderful addition if Wolves could pull it off.

Related topics:

Comment Guidelines

Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.

Local news you can trust
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice