Wolves goalkeeper Matt Murray has missed the boat again with the promotion party, explains Tim Nash.

For most people, lounging in a Portuguese villa with the sun on your back with the family is the idea of bliss.

But timing, as they say, is everything.

Unfortunately for injured keeper Matt Murray, the giant No 1 went on holiday just as Wolves sealed promotion to the Premier League with Saturday’s 1-0 win against QPR.

As if being injured since November wasn’t bad enough, Murray, who returned from his week-long break today as he recovers from a ruptured patella tendon, missed all the celebrations too.

Instead, he was left watching the scenes unfold on TV 1,000 miles from the action.

He said: “The gaffer said I could have a break from rehab, as the likes of George Elokobi and Carl Ikeme have had previously.

“I just didn’t get the timing right as I thought it might take a little bit longer to clinch it (promotion).

“It’s just to freshen things up, as I’m going to be in most of the summer although I have been in the gym every day. I was sat in the villa and I was in watching it all unfold with my family on Sky Sports News.

“It was great to see news of Sylvan (Ebanks-Blake) getting the goal and then again when the full-time whistle went.

“A big cheer went up at both moments and then I got a few congratulations texts after the game, even though I don’t think I deserved them as I was only on the bench once.

“I saw the highlights on the Championship on the Sunday and it looked a great atmosphere.

“No disrespect to my family – and I had a great holiday – but I do wish I’d been there!

“I’m delighted for the lads, because they did what they had to do and fully deserved to clinch promotion.

“They’ve led the table for so long and have been the best team.When they did go through a sticky patch, they responded really well to produce some great results towards the end.”

Typically, Murray – one of the biggest personalities at the training ground – was soon back in communication with his team-mates as the dust settled on the news.

He said: “I sent the other keepers texts to congratulate them after the game. It’s a shame for Carl who came in and did well that he got injured.

“But, at the same time, Wayne has returned and also played a big part, keeping some crucial clean sheets towards the end.

“That’s what gives goalkeepers pride in their performance and it’s been important the team have been solid in recent weeks.”

Boss Mick McCarthy expressed his sympathy at Murray’s latest piece of bad luck.

But he revealed that the strength of the team spirit in the squad meant the luckless keeper didn’t stay out of the loop for long.

He said: “I think they get made to feel part of it as much as anyone else. I know what it’s like if you’re not playing.

“You don’t feel like joining in but it’s the way it is unfortunately. But Matt’s done all his work and he’s been resting for a while. He’s coming along fine.”