Nuno Espirito Santo has revealed what he told his Wolves players at half-time to inspire their second-half turnaround at St Mary’s. Danny Ings’ goal had Southampton in front at the break before Ruben Neves (pen) and Pedro Neto turned the game around. Wolves’ first-half showing was abject and Nuno has explained the words he had with his players at half-time.
Nuno Espirito Santo said: “The momentum changed in the second half, I’m pleased with the reaction. I just told them to correct things and find better solutions at half time. We have talented players, Pedro, Adama, when they have space to do their actions they’re very difficult to stop. It’s a huge moment for us.”
Wolves prioritised the Premier League game over Thursday’s FA Cup clash with the Saints, and this victory moves them up to 12th in the table. Some supporters remain frustrated that Nuno didn’t field his strongest XI in the cup game earlier this week. Explaining his decision to make six changes in more detail today,Nuno Espirito Santo said: “I understand and respect their opinions a lot, more than anyone else. They are at home but they are aware of the situations – but they are not totally aware of everything. For example, Willian (Jose) came from Spain, he played against Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Leicester – all these games and minutes – Pedro the same, Adama (Traore) the same. When you consider a player is on the edge of getting injured you have to be aware of that and make the right decision.”
Hasenhuttl believes the one given against Ryan Bertrand was similar to a later incident involving Wolves’ Leander Dendoncker which wasn’t awarded.
Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “He explained the arm was away from the body. It is the rule, OK, but then he must explain on the other side when the ball hits the arm and this is not a penalty. VAR maybe can explain this but I couldn’t speak with VAR.”
