Max Kilman Wolves
Nuno Espirito Santo was happy to single out Max Kilman for praise after his brilliant defensive showing in the win over Leeds United.
Nuno said “I think he played well,” Nuno said. “In the second half he started really well, reading the lines and anticipating well. It was a good pass forward for the goal too. Max, I think everybody knows, he was with the under-23s. His professional career was very premature. I think he has something. He works very hard, he knows what he has to improve and he’s become stronger as the time has gone by. I’m proud of the answer he’s given today but the credit is for him. When your chance comes you have to respond and Max did that. Two seasons ago Max was a back-up and now he is ready to compete. I think the second half was better. Leeds started very strong and they were able to create situations. As the game goes, I think we keep on growing inside the game. The answer in terms of fitness was good. I think we defended well. The second half was better, with the ball and we created more chances. The character of the team was evident. In terms of fitness and energy, it was much better.”
The rookie defender was starting his second successive Premier League game at Elland Road and helped Wolverhampton Wanderers seal yet another clean sheet. Kilman was rewarded for his efforts with Sky Sports’ man of the match award after winning 100 per cent of his defensive duels and providing the pass which allowed Raul Jimenez to win it for the visitors. And Nuno, who promoted to Kilman to the first team two years ago, was delighted with his defender on what was just his 14th senior appearance for Wolves.
Wolves are the first team to defeat Leeds at Elland Road this season with Fulham and Manchester City previously failing to take maximum points. The hosts dominated the first half but a resolute defensive showing, plus some swift counter-attacking in the second half, allowed Wolves to clinch their third win in five league matches.
