Wolverhampton: "Do we want to be remembered for fighting until the end of the season or do we want to be remembered for being cowards?" This was the stark question posed by Matt Doherty as Wolverhampton Wanderers face the grim prospect of relegation from the Premier League. With the threat of matching Derby County's record low points total of 11 from the 2007-08 season looming, Wolves are struggling to find a way out of their current predicament.
According to BBC, Wolves have been unable to halt their slide down the Premier League table, with their latest defeat to Brentford marking their 10th consecutive loss and 15th in 17 games. This has left them with a mere two points at Christmas, a joint-low in Premier League history. The 14-point gap from safety is the largest ever recorded at this stage of the season, surpassing Sunderland's 11-point deficit in 2005-06.
Manager Rob Edwards, who took over after Vitor Pereira's departure, has been unable to turn the team's fortunes around, losing all six games since his appointment. Despite brief moments of promise against Aston Villa and Arsenal, Wolves continue to struggle, with Edwards emphasizing the need for collective effort and resilience to overcome the current crisis.
The situation has also taken a toll on the team's morale, with matches played in front of dwindling crowds and vocal dissatisfaction from fans. Defender Doherty expressed the team's frustration, noting the lack of belief and confidence among the players. Edwards, meanwhile, has remained optimistic, rallying his players to fight and address the basic errors costing them games.
The upcoming January transfer window presents an opportunity for Wolves to begin rebuilding, though Edwards acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. With the team currently occupying their non-homegrown player quota, Wolves must carefully navigate the market to bring in fresh talent and Premier League experience. The club's precarious position, however, may deter potential signings, as the specter of relegation looms large.
As Wolves look to the future, key players like Joao Gomes and Hwang Hee-chan will be eager to secure their places in upcoming international tournaments, adding another layer of complexity to the team's internal dynamics. Doherty highlighted the necessity of an impactful transfer window, stressing the need for new energy and a return to the performance levels seen in previous seasons.