expressandstar.com

Wolves have taken delivery of a familiar face this transfer window – former midfielder Carl Robinson.

But the Wales international, who is captain of Major League side Toronto, has only returned to old territory to top up his fitness levels during the off-season in North America.

Now 31, Robinson, who made 189 appearances for Wolves between 1995-2002, told the Express & Star in July he may return to Molineux during the winter months.

Robinson has taken up an offer from boss Mick McCarthy, who signed him for Sunderland on a free transfer from Portsmouth in 2004.

He has followed the lead of David Beckham who is training with an English club – Arsenal – during the MLS off-season. 

“I needed to get some training in, so I asked Mick if I could come and spend a bit of time at Wolves,” said Robinson.

“I need to keep my fitness up before the season starts again in March and I’m really grateful to Mick and Wolves for allowing me to do that.

“It’s a case of doing some work in the gym or if Mick needs an extra body in training then that’s great.

“I’ll be happy enough training with the young players, I just need to keep myself ticking over.”

Robinson returned to the £3m Sir Jack Hayward Training Ground – a far cry from the muddy Portakabins he left behind five-and-a-half years ago.

And he admits times have changed.

“There are a few familiar faces still here which is nice, but times also change and things have moved forward,” he said.

“It’s all for the better because facilities here are fantastic. I’m really impressed with them.

“Wolves have got a strong squad – looking around I see a lot of good players.

“Obviously I know Matty from my time here as well as some of the former Sunderland lads such as Gary Breen, Neill Collins and Stephen Elliott.

“And I’ve been in Wales squads with Rob Edwards, Freddy Eastwood and Wayne Hennessey.”

Robinson however stressed there is no chance of a permanent return.

“I’ve really enjoyed my first year with Toronto,” he said. “It was a big decision for me to go there but one I’ll never regret.

“I’ve really enjoyed both the football and the lifestyle over there and it’s the right decision for both me and my family.”

See Also:

• Share you news, photos, audio clips and videos with the Express & Star