Molineux legend Andy Thompson has suggested that the Wolves players lack the same kind of hunger as Pedro Neto.
Thompson addressed the media following the 3-0 loss to West Ham United on Sunday, during which Neto remained unavailable. Since sustaining an injury in the match against Newcastle United at the end of October, Neto has been sidelined, and Wolves are beginning to feel his absence.
In recent games, the team’s performance has declined, and there seems to be a lack of creativity in the attacking third. The match against West Ham marked only the second occasion in the current Premier League season that Wolves failed to score.
Neto exhibited outstanding form prior to his injury, leading the Premier League assists chart with seven. He consistently took on a leadership role in every game, and according to Thompson, other Wolves players do not seem to possess the same level of hunger as the Portuguese player.
Andy Thompson believes Wolves are really missing Pedro Neto and his hunger
Thompson discussed Wolves’ recent struggles in the final third during a conversation with Mikey Burrows on the Wolves Weekly podcast. Despite Hwang Hee-chan and Matheus Cunha finding the net, there have been instances where Wolves reached the attacking zone but failed to capitalize on opportunities.
According to Thompson, Neto possesses a crucial quality – a relentless hunger. He emphasized that Neto is not flaunting his skills but rather asserting his determination to prove himself as a skilled player. Described as a winger with the ability to take on defenders and deliver precise passes, Neto’s presence on the field is seen as a catalyst for driving the team forward. Thompson stressed the importance of being assertive and causing problems for opponents, highlighting Neto’s role in setting an example for the team and guiding them on what actions to take.
Wolves supporters are eagerly anticipating Neto’s return to action, with indications suggesting that he might be in contention to play against Chelsea on Sunday.
Neto always stepping up for Wolves
The £50,000-a-week player Neto is notably straightforward, as evidenced by his impressive seven assists and one goal in the current Premier League season, achieved in just 10 appearances.
When he’s on the field, there’s a distinct sense that he takes charge for Wolves, utilizing his speed and dribbling as key assets. Prior to his injury, Neto stood out as a positive force for Wanderers. Since being sidelined, Wolves’ offensive impact has diminished, despite the lively performances of Hwang and Cunha.
Thompson implies that other Wolves players might not be demonstrating the same level of determination as Neto. While it’s likely that all players share a hunger to win every game, Neto’s direct playing style and proficiency in the attacking third perhaps give the impression that he possesses a greater hunger than his teammates.
