The pressure on Gary O’Neil at Wolves has reached boiling point, with the club’s hierarchy reportedly considering potential replacements as the team languishes in the Premier League relegation zone.
Wolves sit three points adrift of safety after collecting just nine points from their opening 14 matches.
Even if they secure a victory against West Ham at the London Stadium, escaping the bottom three will be impossible unless Crystal Palace suffer a heavy defeat at the hands of Manchester City.
Wednesday’s humiliating 4-0 loss to Everton has piled further scrutiny on O’Neil. The head coach is expected to make several changes to his lineup, potentially reverting to a flat back four to stabilise the defence.
Mario Lemina could also return to his natural central midfield role as O’Neil looks for answers to Wolves’ struggles.
With key decisions looming, including who starts on the flanks, here’s the predicted lineup for Wolves as they prepare to face Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham—another side under pressure.
Predicted Wolves Lineup
GK – Jose Sa: The experienced goalkeeper has reclaimed his spot as the No. 1 choice, displacing summer signing Sam Johnstone.
RB – Nelson Semedo: Returning from suspension, the Portuguese defender is essential for Wolves whenever he’s fit.
CB – Craig Dawson: Despite two own goals in recent games, Wolves’ lack of defensive depth means Dawson is likely to keep his place.
CB – Toti Gomes: A versatile option, the 25-year-old is expected to shift into the centre if Wolves opt for a flat back four.
LB – Rayan Ait-Nouri: Though his form has dipped, Ait-Nouri’s attacking potential gives him an edge in selection.
CM – Mario Lemina: The Wolves skipper is best utilised as a defensive midfielder, sweeping up play and bringing calm to the middle of the park.
CM – Joao Gomes: Known for his ability to disrupt opposition attacks, Gomes is one of Wolves’ most committed players.
RW – Jean-Ricner Bellegarde: Rested and ready, Bellegarde offers energy on the right, especially after Goncalo Guedes’ poor outing at Goodison Park.
CAM – Matheus Cunha: The standout performer in the Fulham match, Cunha will aim to replicate his two-goal, one-assist heroics in London.
LW – Rodrigo Gomes: A promising summer signing, Rodrigo has shown flashes of brilliance and will look to build on that.
ST – Jorgen Strand Larsen: With five goal contributions in his last five games, the Norwegian is emerging as Wolves’ most reliable attacking outlet.
O’Neil faces a critical test, and anything less than a strong performance could see his tenure come to an end.
