Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - May 7, 2022. Chelsea's Christian Pulisic in action with Wolverhampton Wanderers' Pedro Neto.
Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Pedro Neto was absent from the Premier League game vs Bournemouth due to his ‘fitness’, according to journalist Liam Keen.
The Lowdown: Neto’s absence
The Old Gold suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Cherries at Molineux on Saturday, as Julen Lopetegui was once again without the services of the 22-year-old Neto, who has suffered torrid luck with injuries over the last 24 months.
The Portugal international has been out of action since October 2022 with an ankle injury but was named as an unused substitute for the previous 2-1 victory over Southampton, so the fact that he was missing completely this weekend caused concern that he had suffered a setback.
The Latest: Lopetegui’s update
Taking to Twitter after Saturday’s loss, Keen relayed an update from Lopetegui on Neto’s whereabouts, stating that he’s simply working his way back up to normal speed.
“Lopetegui confirms Neto is still building up his fitness, hence why he wasn’t involved today. Says he is ‘improving’.”
The Verdict: Missing piece of the puzzle?
Neto is yet to make a single appearance under Lopetegui due his long-term issue but Wolves could do with him returning to first-team action as soon as possible.
The Midlands winger has clocked up 23 goal contributions during his time at the club and is a great option to have available with his ability to operate in six different attacking positions (Transfermarkt).
The Viana do Castelo native was also averaging 1.6 key passes and 1.4 shots per top-flight game prior to his absence, showing the positive impact he has on the side (WhoScored).
Wolves are in need of attacking assistance given their league position, and with Neto having been hailed for his ‘electric’ pace by talent scout Jacek Kulig, he could be exactly what they have been missing.
Will Wolves be relegated this season?
Yes
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