Jackett lays down gauntlet to K-Mac

McDonald travelled north to the Macron Stadium but wasn't even named as a substitute, with George Saville preferred on the bench.

The 26-year-old is out of contract next summer and has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction about the offer Wolves have put on the table. It led to the 'unsettled' midfielder being left out of a pre-season game at Burton.

However, Jackett insisted McDonald was left out purely on his recent form.

"I decided to play only two of the three midfield players I've been playing," Jackett said. "With the return to fitness of Wallace, Nathan Byrne coming into the group, I went for two of the three midfield players and then genuine wide players.

"It's been a tough period for Kevin, with those very well-publicised contract negotiations.

"It was unfortunately him that was left out on the form of Conor Coady and David Edwards.

"He has to keep working hard and do everything he can to get back to top form, which is where we need him, and back into the side.

"He's a very capable player, as we all know. I don't think he's been in top form but I have confidence he can get back to that."

Jackett also sprang a surprise in goal with Carl Ikeme dropped for the second time this season, however Emiliano Martinez rewarded him with a man of the match display.

"I went for Emi and he showed the very good goalkeeper he is," Jackett said. "I was very pleased with him, that'll give him a lot of confidence and I have confidence in him and Carl Ikeme to do the job."

Jackett admitted his young team were 'naive' in defeat but he was generally upbeat with Wolves' performance.

"There's a lot for us to base on going forward," Jackett said.