Wolves Aim To Climb Premier League Table Following Back-to-Back Victories

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Matheus Cunha believes Wolves can now aim higher in the Premier League standings following consecutive victories. Gary O'Neil's squad is set to continue their resurgence against Bournemouth on Saturday. Previously, Wolves were at the bottom without a win after 10 matches. However, triumphs over Southampton (2-0) and Fulham (4-1) have lifted them from the relegation zone.

Cunha has been instrumental in Wolves' recent success, contributing seven goals and three assists this season. Notably, seven of these contributions occurred in their last four games. Since his Premier League debut in January 2023, Cunha has scored more goals (21) and provided more assists (10) than any other Wolves player. His total of 31 goal involvements ranks second in the club's history, only behind Raul Jimenez with 58.

Before Wolves' turnaround, there was speculation about O'Neil's position. However, Cunha insists the team remains united and confident under his leadership. "We never had a doubt about this," Cunha said regarding O'Neil's role. "He did a lot of good things for us last season, and then we started to build an unbelievable relationship."

Cunha further stated that results are crucial in football but emphasised the importance of hard work for himself and the team. "We are very happy with him and we are very happy with the results," he added. "I hope now we can start to fight for the things we want."

Bournemouth, O'Neil's former club, sits six points ahead of Wolves in 13th place but has lost two consecutive games after a strong start to the season. Their latest defeat was against Brighton and Hove Albion at home. Antoine Semenyo received his fifth yellow card of the season during this match, ruling him out of Saturday's game against Wolves due to suspension.

Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola commented on Semenyo's suspension: "Every team has injuries, has suspensions... We will miss now Ant, that is also a big miss." He acknowledged that all teams must adapt to such challenges.

Players to Watch

Wolves - Matheus Cunha: Cunha stands out as Wolves' star player this season. He boasts more Premier League goal involvements than any player outside the 'big six' clubs (10). Additionally, he has participated in more attacking sequences (56) than any other Wolves player.

Bournemouth - Milos Kerkez: With Semenyo absent, Bournemouth will rely on creativity from other players like left-back Kerkez. He ranks fifth among Premier League defenders for open-play crosses (30) this season and has created 12 open-play chances.

Match Prediction

Wolves have won their last two Premier League matches, equalling their total wins from their previous 22 games combined (five draws, 15 defeats). They last achieved three consecutive wins in December last year. Bournemouth has struggled on the road recently, winning just three of their last 16 away games.

Their only victory against Wolves came in April. Despite this, O'Neil might feel optimistic about facing his former club on Saturday. Meanwhile, Bournemouth is yet to secure a Premier League win against teams not starting in either the relegation zone or top four this season.

Expectations for Entertainment

Fans can anticipate an entertaining match regardless of the outcome. Wolves have featured in high-scoring games this term with 48 goals across their 12 Premier League fixtures—more than any other team. Their tally of 20 goals scored is their highest at this stage since 1972-73 when they netted 25 goals.

Their defence has conceded 28 goals so far—the most since conceding 31 by this point in the 1983-84 campaign.