Wolves have received a huge boost with the news that Romain Saiss will be available for the upcoming clash against Manchester United.
The Lowdown: Saiss superb for Wolves
Wanderers have thrived with Bruno Lage adopting a three-man defence this season, conceding just 14 times in 18 Premier League matches to date.
Saiss has been a key part of that success, forming a strong partnership with Max Kilman and Conor Coady, not to mention being hailed by his manager as "Maldini from Morocco".
The 31-year-old is set to represent his country at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), however, and his involvement in the trip to Old Trafford on January 3 has been in doubt.
The Latest: Saiss available for Man United clash
Thankfully, Saiss will be available for the United clash, with The Express & Star's Liam Keen confirming as much on Monday morning.
In his report, he stated that Europe-based players taking part in AFCON were expected to leave their clubs this week, but after the Confederation of African Football received requests to change that, they will now depart after the first set of fixtures in January.
The Verdict: Big boost for Lage
Saiss has been such a strong performer for Wolves this season, not only starting all 18 league games but also scoring twice, so this is a big boost for Lage. He tops the squad for aerial duels won (2.6) and interceptions (1.9) per game in the league during 2021/22 so far.
His experience at the back will be crucial against a United side who have found their feet under interim manager Ralf Rangnick, with a busy evening potentially on the cards for Wanderers' defence.
Saiss will be a big loss when he heads off on AFCON duty, but the hope is that Wolves will battle on without him for a few matches in January before welcoming him back with open arms.
While Wanderers fans wouldn't begrudge seeing their player doing well in the tournament, they surely won't be too upset if Morocco end up being eliminated early and Saiss is back at Molineux before long.
In other news, Luke Hatfield has made a key Wolves transfer claim. Read more here.