Wolves boss reveals reason for Hwang Hee-chan's struggles

The South Korean international has been unable to get into his rhythm this season and has scored just two goals in 20 Premier League appearances.

A combination of small injuries and poor performances means Hwang has averaged around 32 minutes per game in the top flight this campaign, while his last start came on January 15.

Hwang has made just three appearances in two months, coinciding with Jorgen Strand Larsen's impressive form that saw him score six goals in as many games, and Pereira admits that is the main reason for Hwang's lack of chances and it has taken it's toll on the forward.

"Larsen is scoring and he's (Hwang) a striker," Pereira said when asked about Hwang's lack of minutes.

"Of course, he can play as a forward but he's not a player to play in between the lines, he likes to play on the limit, which means in our system he's a striker and Larsen is scoring.

"It's not about the quality of Hee-chan, because he has a lot of quality and he has different than Larsen.

"For a striker, if you don't play or have a lot of minutes, to get the confidence is not easy.

"He also got some small injuries where he's training but not 100 per cent.

"Larsen is scoring, so we'll see (if Hwang gets more minutes), but he's a very good player."

When asked if Hwang is frustrated at his limited opportunities, Pereira added: "Of course, but I need to be honest.

"Have a conversation, explain and after it's the mentality to compete and prove yourself and prove you deserve to play."

Hwang only has three more games to break into the team this season, but he was left on the bench last time out despite Larsen's injury that kept him out of the clash against Manchester City.

Wolves rejected a £21million bid from French club Marseille last summer and the forward was convinced by former boss Gary O'Neil to stay in the Midlands, but his future is now uncertain after a difficult season.