FeatureThe lowdown on Wolves: New signings, form, Reds record and more
Liverpool visit Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday afternoon in Premier League action - here's what you need to know about the opposition.
Here, we take an in-depth look at the hosts ahead of the Molineux meeting...
Form
Julen Lopetegui’s appointment as manager has sparked an upturn in results, with Wolves taking seven points from their five post-World Cup Premier League matches.
The Midlands club were rooted to the bottom of the table prior to the Spaniard’s arrival but have climbed out of the relegation zone. Saturday’s game will see Wolves host Liverpool for the second time in quick succession, after the Reds won 1-0 in an Emirates FA Cup third-round replay at Molineux on January 17.
Early team news
Pedro Neto is closing on a return from a lengthy injury layoff but this weekend’s game could come too soon for the winger. The Portuguese has been sidelined since October after sustaining ankle ligament damage. Boubacar Traore, Sasa Kalajdzic and Chiquinho remain out with long-term injuries.
Midfield talent Gomes joins Wolves revolution
Wolves have been one of Europe’s busiest teams in the January transfer window, with manager Lopetegui bolstering his squad with six new players. They completed their substantial business during the month with the signing of 21-year-old Flamengo midfielder Joao Gomes on Monday.
Wolves have also brought in attacking duo Matheus Cunha and Pablo Sarabia, midfielder Mario Lemina, experienced defender Craig Dawson, and goalkeeper Daniel Bentley.
Memorable Molineux moment
Divock Origi scored a dramatic 94th-minute winner in this fixture last season, with his superb touch-and-finish sparking wild celebrations among the Reds’ away support. Wolves had repelled incessant Liverpool attacks and looked set to earn a share of the points as the game headed into stoppage time.
Jürgen Klopp’s men remained steadfast in their search of a breakthrough, though, and got their reward when Mohamed Salah bolted clear down the right and squared for Origi. The Belgian duly added yet another crucial Liverpool strike to his significant collection.
Reds aiming to sustain fine Wolves run
Wolves has been a happy hunting ground for Liverpool in recent years. The Reds have won seven of their past eight games at Molineux, including all of the previous four clashes.
All-time record v Wolves
In the 112 matches between the teams, Liverpool have won 58 and lost 36. There have been 18 draws.