Its likely to be Chelsea ‘B’ vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers ‘B’ when the teams are announced at Stamford Bridge tonight, but don’t let that fool you into thinking Chelsea won’t be at the races.
New boys Marko Marin, Victor Moses, and Cesar Azpilicueta will hopefully get game-time, and it’s a chance to show the Chelsea faithful that the goals have not dried up in the team, despite just Ashley Cole scoring in the last 180 minutes of football.
We welcome the midlands side who have won their last three league games, and despite selling some prized assets in the summer, have positioned themselves perfectly for a shot at an automatic return to the top flight.
To get some insight into todays visitors, we spoke to Steve Phipps, an avid Wolves fan, who also enjoys cricket, snooker, and the occasional round of golf.
Hi Steve, last season wasn’t the greatest for Wolves, getting relegated, and having to sell the likes of Fletcher, Jarvis, and Kightly. How impressed have you been with your sides start to the new campaign?
Im very happy with our start. The team is slowly taking shape but plenty of points on the board. Our new foreign players are getting fitter and adapting to the squad too.
Were Wolves fans skeptical of the appointment of Solbakken? Are you happy with his start, and the brand of football he brings to Molineux?
Some were sceptical as he was relatively unknown, but the more you read on him and more you hear him talk, the more I and many others are impressed. Definitely seeing a passing style being implemented as well as an organisation and team shape. Impressive character.
Where do you think Wolves and Chelsea will finish in their respective leagues this season?
Its easier to predict the Premier League table that’s for sure! I’d say Chelsea 4th or 5th. I think there are a couple of big holes that still need filling in your squad. As for us I’ll be optimistic and say top four, playoffs minimum. We will have the potential to get automatic promotion with couple more signings in January.
If you could take one player from the Chelsea squad for the Wolves team, who would it be, and why?
I think I’d have to say Hazard. creativity and ability to play wide or in the hole. He will create loads of goals and assists for you I reckon!
Wise choice, we think so too. Finally, what do you think the score will be in tonights game?
Well we’ve left behind most of the first team and will make 10 changes probably, so not expecting anything at all. Not sure what team Chelsea will field but I imagine a comfortable 3-0 home win or so. Stephen Hunt to get booed on his first & last start of the season!
Thanks again to Steve for his answers, you can catch him on Twitter @stevephipps83, and we wish Wolves all the best for their Championship season.
By Brad Smith
Follow @BrummieBrad