Bruno Lage manager
Bruno Lage has explained how Daniel Podence’s unique approach helped Wolverhampton Wanderers beat Champions League chasing West Ham.
Bruno Lage said: “Daniel can give us a dynamic inside (game) and today we needed to find a dynamic inside but not too much. We needed to play more in half spaces and he does very well in that situation. After that, we looked at the opponent. When you look at the four defenders, especially the two central defenders, from West Ham, they are big guys so we need to put guys with agility in these one against one situations. I think he’s one of the best guys we have in our squad to do that.”
Podence, 26, has been the spare part in Wolves’ attack for much of this season. With Hwang Hee-chan now a fixture to Jimenez’s left, Traore and Trincao have taken it in turns on the right. Lage handed Podence a start in Wolves’ 1-0 win over Southampton in September, before restoring him to the bench for the past two months.
Bruno Lage added: “I think it’s been difficult for everyone. Even Adama, he came into the team and did very well, also Daniel, when he’s played he’s helped us, also Trincao – I think Trincao has played more than the others. He (Trincao) can link the game and create chances. He missed a lot of chances. He needs one goal to be solid. I’m very happy with the four guys, they are giving me a lot of solutions in each moment.”
