Wolves blog: All hail McCarthy

Friday 24th April 2009, 9:15AM BST.

mccarthyWolves blogger Nathan Lloyd ate some humble pie as boss Mick McCarthy brings Premier League football to Molineux – but he wasn’t alone.

I thought it was disgusting when Wolves fans stormed the pitch at the end of the QPR game.  Why disgusting?  It was disgusting, because sat high in the Steve Bull stand, I couldn’t join them!

Oh how I longed to conga on the pitch or just simply soak up some of the euphoric atmosphere which was so difficult to absorb from row N. I wish I had brought a rope!

Up as champions, or as good as and how fitting that Andy Keogh, who I’ve never been shy to give a bit of stick to this season, set up the goal that takes us up to the only football league that really matters.

The scenes in the dressing room afterwards with Mick drenched in Asti Spumante were wondrous, apart from seeing the dejected figure of Neill Collins, suited and booted and giving the impression that he felt slightly detached from the jubilance felt by his team mates.

Neill was an important reason why Wolves were promoted and although I have sometimes been one of his harshest critics, he was an important piece of the Championship jigsaw and should have felt he had just as much right to celebrate as any of the players who played against QPR.

I wrote a special blog that was published after Saturday’s game, congratulating Mick and the boys on their success.  I’d actually written it on the Friday and tried to keep it as generic as possible, just on the off chance that QPR did live up to their pre-game party-poopers billing.

If any of you read that blog, an open letter to Mick, you will know that I recalled how I had actually wanted him ousted at the end last season, having sat through some diabolical football- and I wasn’t alone.

I went on to say well done to Mick for proving myself and the other nuggets wrong by gaining success.  Where are those other nuggets now?

I feel like the fool on the hill.  Was I really alone in my condemnation for Mick McCarthy at the end of last season?  I don’t think I was.

Now, because I am giving the giant Yorkshire eagle a slap on the back and saying fair play for proving me wrong, I’m accused of being hypocritical amongst other ludicrous accusations.

Well, pah!  I won’t apology for saying Mick should have been sacked at the end of last season, that would be insulting fans intelligence.  As ‘old big ‘ead’ Brian Clough once said – “it’s only opinions, they make the world go round.”

Anyway, I’m one opinion amongst a happy pack of Wolves fans.  This is a time for celebration, for reflection on a fantastic achievement and for Wolves fans to begin speculating what players will be arriving before our next venture into top-flight football.

We have been reassured of a big pot of gold, to pick up some players with real top flight experience.  We should look at Stoke who have spent £30 million this season, not all of it wisely, with £10million going on Seyi Olofinjana and Dave Kitson.

But they now seem the best equipped team out of those promoted to stay up and who would have thought that at the beginning of the campaign?

We can all come up with wish lists for players to come in.  My current crop of potential targets to come in the summer would be Michael Mancienne, Tom Huddlestone, Paul Scholes, Robert Huth, Danny Murphy, Joseph Yobo and Matt Derbyshire.

I have drawn up a list of around 50, but it’s surely impossible to second guess where Mick will be plucking his new warriors from.

As long as Steve Morgan isn’t too parsimonious with his spending and that our first Premiership signing isn’t Oleg Luzhny, then I’ll be happy.

Promotion also means that there will also be a lot of Wolves players who will now have to move on and find new teams.  I don’t think in this current air of exuberance that it would be right for me to list who I feel should be shipped out, but feel free if you would like to speculate below!

To most Wolves fans, the result of the Barnsley game is immaterial.  Many Wolves’ fans are traveling to Oakwell to simply continue the celebrations.

Simon Davey and his Barnsley team, hovering just two points above the relegation zone, will hope that Wolves simply turn up and roll over.

But we all know that Mick won’t allow his team to travel to his home town club and not put a shift in – it isn’t in the man’s make-up.

The race for second spot in the league is looking like going to a Birmingham team who haven’t shone all season, but have managed to pick up results and hold on to our coat tails.

Having seen the Royals destroy us at Molineux, I would have said they would have been nailed on for promotion.

Having competed for a top two slot all season, they will now surely feel disheartened as they enter the play-offs against some tough opposition. I think they are destined for another season in the Championship.

Maybe we can be like poach the likes of Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt from Reading, taking them both back into the Premier League wearing the gold and black?

Who cares about other teams though. We are champions elect and suddenly points, results and goal differences, none of it matters a jot.

Now how much have I got to pay for my season ticket I forgot to stupidly buy in the Early Bird window?


  1. 1
    ancient wolf

    Nathan, I too have been wondering where all those posters have gone who were call Mick a Muppet and demanding his sacking. I can only guess that they are too ashamed to post, or more likely have changed their screen names. Keep the faith!

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  2. 2
    laughingwolf

    Mick has done a fantastic job but we really shouldnt of sold Freddy! lol. After Twaddle mick has shown real passion and although (like every other manager) he has his favourites nobody can knock he is the first manager in years to win us a title (pending tomo). I think he will keep us up now I really do. I think we are only 5 players short but 3 from the premier league and 3 of the best players from the championship will keep us up:

    Kevin Nolan (newcastle)
    Shaun Davies (pompey)
    Callum Davenport (westham)
    Joe Ledley (cardiff)
    Kevin Doyle (reading)
    Chris Eagles / Stephen Hunt

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  3. 3
    laughingwolf

    Robert Huth, Joseph Yobo and Matt Derbyshire would be quality. I am convinced we have been promoted at the right time with the recession. We will pick up bargains no doubt. There are strong rumours that Seyi Olifinjana will be coming back for 1 mil.

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  4. 4
    Bourne Wolf

    A couple of questions that I can’t find the answer to – how did our new anthem go on Saturday? and I have seen quite a few discussions about Kyle Bennett’s progress, but I thought it was his brother Elliot who was the real talent that we were shielding the (other) big clubs from. I know he has been out on loan, but it has gone quiet. Any info?
    Watching Zeli Ismail’s progress and seen him in action at international level, you can see why he draws comparisons to Walcott.
    P.S. Not ashamed to admit I was a Mad Mick doubter and am still not sure he has the nous to compete tactically with the Premiership managers in the way I feel the Swansea and Burnley managers already have in the cup competitions. Each time we have come up against the ex-prem clubs this season, we have struggled. We are also all well aware of his over loyalty in certain areas which will be exposed to a far greater extent. But Mick has proved me wrong once, I hope he can again.

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  5. 5
    northern wolf

    Nathan, ive publically disagreed with all the negative posts for a long time. Moaning when we were having a spectacular & memorable season. Mick made great signings and steadily built a team capable of winning the league, even during the blip I said ” believe – keep the faith” 17 wins from 23 was no fluke. I cant say Ive always agreed with team selections, but im not party to day-to-day training and the finer detail like fitness levels, confidence or tactics for a match. The people who were the detractors know who they are, and can eat their humble pie. Everyone should now draw a line under the past. Here’s to the future and a unified Wolves army totally behind our Mick. We have a considerable challenge ahead, we need a stadium making a big noise from the kick off, a team that can compete and inspire the fans. And regardless everyone pulling together through thick and thin. Where there is shared belief there is a chance of something big

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  6. 6
    chris hoggard

    Most of my critical comments during the season had been aimed at the owner and Chief Executive,where they ambitous enough in the Jan transfer window and subsequent loan market?To be fair they came up with Berra and Harewood.The question of ambition is even more relevant right now.It is vital that big money is spent on quality ,power and bags of pace.If we cannot get these attributes we may as well not sign anybody and pocket the money ready for the championship the season after next.Jez Moxey was heavily involved in the signing of CAMARA.I can recall his interview at the time saying Dave Jones wants pace and that is what we have got him.Well Jez learn from this please and make sure we get pace this time.Without pace in the Premier you can forget it.

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  7. 7
    The Usual Suspects

    Nathan -even when MM gets the praise he tends to focus on the minority of fans who go down the road of personal insults and asking for him to be sacked – just like the “told you so mob” who believe that they are now “in the right” and without “stain of sin”

    Personally – I believe that there is nothing wrong with making a point/s right or wrong – its just an opinion

    Yes there are “extremists” but the vast majority of fans (including me) have a passion for the club and will say what they think and feel ala players out of position etc etc

    As for the “we’re right brigade” – Give it a rest and let ALL Wolves fans – fickle or not enjoy the end of the season and bask in the glow of promotion before the major job that faces us all back in the greed league

    MM deserves a well done as much as the rest of the staff at the Mol BUT so do all the Wolves fans – who have kept faith over the years – even when we were in the lower leagues – once a Wolf always a Wolf and proud of it!

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  8. 8
    Vim Fuego

    Nathan,

    since you stopped being such a populist a few months ago, your blogs have improved. Let’s hope next season you tell it like you see it and don’t bow to the pressure of trying to please the majority of posters on this message board.

    In terms of who I’d get rid of, it would be all of the following:

    Collins
    Shackell
    Craddock
    Quashie
    Harewood
    Hill
    Henry

    on the grounds that they’re just not good enough for the Premier League. Harsh, but true.

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  9. 9
    wolfhound

    If I was MM I would start at the back with maybe Manciene and Hypia and then work forward with maybe Kevin Nolan a good hardworking tackler paired with Chis Commons,at the front another big striker to go along with SEB say Alves from Middlesborough

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  10. 10
    tom wolvo

    All hail MM as he didnt let jody craddock go on loan this time

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  11. 11
    Finland Wolf

    How much is it typical of Wolves that the moment there’s signs of better TV coverage of the Championship that we leave it!

    At least we went the right way for more coverage than less!

    Looking forward to a lot of games next season. Hopefully not as painful as last time though.

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  12. 12
    PilestheBeaver

    Signing Paul Scholes? The same Paul Scholes who Alex Ferguson just last week said no team had ever bothered even enquiring about as everyone knows he’ll never leave United?

    Nonetheless, it is a time for wild speculation, so I guess everyone’s fair game.

    Personally, I’d like Geovanni if Hull go down, and Doyle from Reading. If we get Mancienne for £4 million, that would be an absolute steal.

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  13. 13
    PositivoutlookWWfan

    ‘I won’t apology for saying Mick should have been sacked at the end of last season, that would be insulting fans intelligence. As ‘old big ‘ead’ Brian Clough once said – “it’s only opinions, they make the world go round.”’

    Yes, and on the whole you are just another knee jerking negative web prowler. I expect to see more negativity from you next year as you try to lead the rabble in calling for Mick to be sacked.

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  14. 14
    Basingstoke Wolf

    2. Great list of players mate. if we only got 3 of those plus another 3, were staying up!

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  15. 15
    johnwolf

    As far has the freddie saga is concerned Mick has been proved 100% right-after all what has he done for Coventry? as with Davies to Bolton (out injured -again!)in Mick we trust and so should every Wolves fan.
    WE ARE WOLVES…..WE ARE PREMIERSHIP….AND SOON TO BE….CHAMPIONS!!!!!!

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  16. 16
    Vim Fuego

    Sorry, forgot to say Iwelumo too. I appreciate his contribution this season, but the Prem is no place for sentimental nonsense.

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  17. 17
    bletchley wolves

    Nice one nathan at least you have the balls to admit you were one of them muppets but you are forgiven.
    Why cant people except it mick stated it would take up to three years to get promoted and he did what no other manager at wolves had done. he god rid of the old and got hungry young blood and it worked.we all know mick will have to bring in older and experienced prem players to help the younger ones and i for one would love to see Jody craddock given another year at wolves he deserves the chance.ho nathan i have an old rope ladder if you are interested for the next pitch invasion.

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  18. 18
    BANNER/WOLVES

    Football is one big melting pot, made up of individual ideas and needs.
    Theses two items are forever changing from match to match and that is why we love football. Add to that the passion you have for your own team it’s no wonder that our fickle minds change from game to game.
    All I know is at the moment I’m in seventh heaven, and come next season when we take on the premiership I will love every minute of it come what may, because that is what I want and I assume every WOLVES fan wants.
    So lets start a new chapter in the history of WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS, and like all past glories and failures we will all be on the edge of our seats either deliriously happy or completeley deflated.

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  19. 19
    Roy Jackson

    Now that we’re up… I wonder if Mick will get some of those luxury ‘airline’ type seats in the dugout? Those little plastic fold up seats hardly do the job and don’t really represent a top flight club.

    Having said that, I can see Mick saying, “It’s a football dug out, it’s not a first class flight lounge. It’s been good enough for us, and it’s our ground. Other fancy clubs can get used to it”.

    But, really I think the whole dug out needs revamping. Any thoughts?

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  20. 20
    OldGold&Black

    Nathan, there is no need to hang your head in shame mate, there were more than a few people calling for MM’s head last season.
    I can say, hand on my heart, I wasn’t one of them.
    As a footy fan of some considerable years I realised that last season was simply one of levelling off for an over-achieving, very young, Team.
    If you look closely at what Mick has actually done, gained promotion with a Team assembled and paid for a fraction of the cost of Blues & Readings squads, it is more than remarkable – it’s pure genius!!
    I for one trust in MM, Jez Moxey & Steve Morgan; they have a chance to re-establish our grand old club back to the position she rightly deserves.
    UP THE WOLVES!!!!

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  21. 21
    Golden Blood

    Nathan, great post.

    I have been Micks staunchest supporter as I feel he is the one man who will not bow to outside pressure. He has his way of doing things and thus he is a great leader.

    Are we good enough for next season right now. Well of course not. But that does not make Mick a bad manager. It is a huge leap of faith, grit determination and quality to the premier league. And Mick is the man to take use there with our head held high.

    We will lose more than we win next season, but if we can compete with Bolton, Wigan, Sunderland, Portsmouth, Stoke, Blackburn, A N Other from the bottom 4 then we will be fine. We can lose every game, but we need to beat these teams to stand a chance.

    I for one can’t wait to here a united Molineux again making the level of noise generated on Saturday every week.

    We need to up the volume big time next season, it will make a big difference.

    If I have one critisism of Wolves it is our fans are too quiet. I think it is due to open end stands, the sound does not revolve around the stadium. Hopefully we will se that cahnge next season.

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  22. 22
    laughingwolf

    14. Cheers mate, expect big things.

    - Kris commons
    - Steve Sidwell
    -Craig Gardener

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  23. 23
    costa del wolf

    I am proud to say that

    I ALWAYS ON HERE BACKED THE TEAM AND STUCK UP FOR MERLIN MICK !!

    Had many arguements with BOBWOLF and a BRIGETANDTONY who were always slating our team and manager !

    Thats NOT saying i didnt have my doubhts deep down inside when we had that bad run but i ALWAYS remaind POSSITIVE on here !!

    SO to BOBWOLF, BRIGETANDMOANY and all you other NUGGETS who doubhted our team on here

    TWO FINGERS UP TO YOU !!

    And to all the HAPPY CLAPPERS like ME !!

    KEEP CLAPPING YOU HAPPY LOT !!!! haha

    COSTA DEL WOLF – HAPPY CLAPPER !

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  24. 24
    wolvesmod

    Paul Scholes… what have you had for breakfast?

    Once again, TOM HUDDLESTONE. Can we not mention that name again? He isn’t coming here. End of. He is Spurs’ first team.. Do you not watch?

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  25. 25
    a proud wolves fan

    I have never read so much self-centred drivel. Achieving promotion has proved what nonsense you have come out with at times this season. Eat your humble pie and then log off and stay away from t’interweb. Or at least take a writing course first. Drawing up a list of 50 players to sign – do you have a life?! Get behind the team and learn the lessons of how fickle your support has been this season.

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  26. 26
    A1wolf

    Great ye Wolves…Would love to keep Jody Craddock….even if not in the first eleven..His vast experience will surely help out in the Wolves setup..be it the reserve or a fringe player…He does deserve to remain a Wolfie doesnt he? He settled the rocking boat when needed…Thanks Jody..one Maltese fan here

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  27. 27
    SUPERSTARDJWOLVES

    A note I sent to a mate of mine who is a Sheffield Utd fan.

    If blues lose to Preston “who need the points to get to the play offs” they have got Reading last game of the season and if reading win tomorrow they will have an added incentive of beating blues and nabbing that 2nd spot on the last game of the season as they have got a better goal difference. However…

    Blades got swansea who are like preston looking to nab a spot in the play offs. Blades got Neil Warnock Crystal Palace last game of the season, how ironic can that turn out to be but 2 wins will get you up if Blues slip up on those 2 games.,… However

    Cardiff the dark horses have got Ipswich with Roy Keane at the helm and there last game is against Sheff Wed who I imagine will let them win to stop you guys getting a chance of 2nd spot if you did slip up, Reading Slip up and Blues slip up.

    I just hope all 4 teams have it all to play for on the last game of the season!!!!

    Wolves on the other hand will be crowned champions! Happy Days

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  28. 28
    GB's Premier Yead

    There’s a simple reason why we improved so much on last season and that’s because Mick sussed the Championship.

    He realised that draws are no good because there are so many equally matched teams, the best way out of the Championship was to win or bust otherwise you just fall into the pack.

    I hope Mick comes up with a strategy for next season in the same way (I found it interesting to see that he’d analysed points taken in different months by promoted teams in the Championship). I wonder what the best strategy will be? Should we look at a mini league and field weaker sides against the Big Boys (ala Mowbray)? Should we attack sides in the Prem the way we have this season similar to Hull’s early season style?

    I personally think our biggest assets are still the two wide men. I think we could be a lethal side soaking up pressure and pinging those two forward on the break.

    My mouths foaming with anticipation at next season just thinking about this.

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  29. 29
    Dublin Wolves

    Really…I wouldn’t of mentioned about last season. The 1 thing I have been preaching about this season (and mainly on your blogs Nathan) is that last season is and was LAST SEASON.

    This is and was a new season, a new beginning and a new challenge, for that MM must be praised for his work and the team must be praised for realising there short comings last season and improving. Lets not forget here, the squad is mainly made up of the same players as last season, they too should take some of the blame for the failings.

    Lets all now draw a line, remember the wonderful season we have had (and lets not forget we still have a great ending to it to come) and lets look forward to the Premier league.

    Anyway, Doyle and Hunt would be great signings (so lets hope Reading don’t make it) my only worry there would be, would a more established Prem club want them??

    I agree I think Blues have 2nd now, I would fear Burnley in the play offs, proved already this season they rise for the big games and I think they are the 1 team with nothing to lose.

    The 1 thing I say for next season is this, we all know how poor we are on the TV with MM in charge (i think its 3 wins in around 16/17 games) lets hope Sky and Setanta don’t fancy many of our games :D

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  30. 30
    Dublin Wolves

    23. I do agree there some what, where has Bob “one liner” Wolf and Nugget and Tony gone???

    Lets be having you…come on :D

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  31. 31
    Robert Perry

    I have to admit I was critical of MM during the season(Picking Collins etc) and I am not afraid to admit I was wrong, as he has done a fantastic job in getting us promoted with the resources he had at his disposal.However I will say this to all the people posting on this site saying they never lost faith in Mick ,Moxey and Morgan,will you be saying the same thing if we have played 10 games next season and we are bottom of the Premiership?

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  32. 32
    Golden Balls

    It’s been a great season and it’s been wonderful to think we can now relax, that in itself is unusual as a Wolves fan.
    I really believe a lot of those negative posts about Mick and Keogh etc came from Albion fans just trying to add humour to their otherwise woeful season. It’s going to be interesting to see who MM can lure to Wolves. Paul Scholes and Saha would be quality signings for the experience as we are going to need it. Onwards and upwards :-) Bye bye Baggies

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  33. 33
    Amsterdam Andy

    I think who we get rid of is very important.
    We cant have dead weight, and have players who we know are simply not good enough, because even having them in the squad will be a weakness.

    Mick needs to be brutal and without sentiment.

    Collins HAS TO GO. He wasnt good enough for this league, the thought of Ronaldo running at collins gives me cold sweats.

    Hill.
    Shackell.
    Craddock, although I have just seen we have offered him a new deal.
    big chris.
    Keoghs not going to do it in the prem.
    Henry like wise.

    The spine of the team is there.
    hennessy, Ikeme, Murray.
    Foley, Berra, Stearman.
    Kightly, Jarvis, yes. Jones is a question mark.

    SEB yes, and Vokes should keep his development going.

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  34. 34
    northern wolfie

    Re – Wolves Targets for next season – I dont believe we can hope for Scholes, or even mancienne (on loan perhaps). We have to be realistic. At the same time we dont want injury prone Saha either.
    Id say we could go for Giles Barnes, Tom Huddlestone, Kev Nolan.
    On a slightly diff subject -can the FA decide when to deduct points in the case of Southampton. Is it EVERY club and EVERY fans responsibility to QUESTION the FA. Either saints were in administration so deduct them 10 pts THIS SEASON. Does the rule specify the FA can decide when to deduct the points?

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  35. 35
    Spite wolf

    7.Usual suspects great post saves me righting exactly the same. I was a doubter but never booed at games as we say it’s about opinions and people should ralise these sorts of boards are for just that. Both sides of the MM debate have been extreme at times calling each other for daring to criticise let’s all enjoy the next 2 games can’t wait for tomorrow.

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  36. 36
    adamski82

    I thought McCarthy was the worse appointment of all time, I was even more disappointed than when we appointed Hoddle! I thought, here comes the usual band of Sunderland rejects and Irish almosts.. and 3 years later we have the youngest most exciting Wolves team in the 20 years I’ve been going! I was wrong…

    Going forward I am not sure about Iwelumo not cutting it.. I say give him a chance, he’s tall, strong, awkward and gives SEB a chance to get into positions! Things is Iwelumo’s strength is his size and he won’t get any smaller for being in the Prem, true the defenders gets better, but don’t forget that at start of season Iwelumo’s finishing was actually deadly.. and 10 goals in the Prem (big ask) would certainly be a big bonus!

    Centre Midfield is a big worry, I like Henry and Jones, but against Brum away, when we needed a big performance, they weren’t there. Too easily poor midfields get by-passed in the prem.. especially playing real wingers like we do. I would love to see us buy Mancienne, but srangely I think he will become a Ledley King..esq.. defensive midfielder.

    What I think the bid 3 MM,SM and JM understand is that alot of our players will be at their best in 2-3 years, add to that our talented youth team who almost beat Everton.. and the likes of Vokes etc.. we need to stay up first season!! Because over the horizon could be a great period for Wolves!

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  37. 37
    cpt_wolves

    Its all happy clappers and it looks like no one ever wanted MM sacked! Fickle.

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  38. 38
    southbank barmy army

    WELL I AIN’T MAKIN’ NO APPOLOGIES FOR BEING NEGATIVE WHEN REQUIRED, AS I WAS POSITIVE WHEN REQUIRED TOO. AND I’LL CONTINUE TO POST GOOD OR BAD AS THE RESULTS DEEM NECESSARY.

    THAT SAID.. NEXT SEASON WILL BE HUGE AND EXTREMELY DIFFICULT, WE’RE GOING UP AGAINST PREMIER TEAMS, THEREFORE WE HAVE TO BE FAIR AND I WON’T BE NEGATIVE AT ALL NEXT SEASON. THEY’VE GOT US WHERE WE ALL WANTED TO BE, SO LETS SUPPORT THEM 110% AND TRY TO SURVIVE THIS TIME.

    COME ON YOU WOLVES… BARMY ARMY.

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  39. 39
    WordsleyWolf

    Nathan, this column is up to your usual dreadful standard.

    You’ve got time to sit around and think of 50 players you want Wolves to sign? Loser.

    It’s not like you’ll be able to influence the board or Super Mick (and I was one of the ‘happy clappers’ who wanted Mick to stay).

    Oh and if you wanted to go on the pitch you should have walked out and back in through the emergency exits next to the pitch that were wide open you clown.

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  40. 40
    primark underpants

    Looking back on Mick’s reign, you have to give him a lot of credit for the team he has built. At the end of last season, I came on here and urged the doubters to give Mick until at least Christmas before passing judgement. At Christmas we were runaway leaders. Similarly, during the height of our ‘sticky’ spell I urged the doubters to reserve judgement until the end of the season. Here we are promoted by April 18th. A remarkable achievement in my book. Let us now ALL pull together in one direction for the huge effort that is required to remain a premiership club in 2009/10. Let us not go down the same road as Sandwell Town. For now, I am in party mode ready for the trip to Barnsley (with a few beers thrown in in Sheffield before the match). OUT OF DARKNESS COMETH LIGHT !!

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  41. 41
    MK Bro

    quality blog bro

    if we really do sign Oleg Luzhny again then it certainly is time to start worrying! Why not resurrect Robert Taylor whilst we are at it? build a quality team for the future :-)

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  42. 42
    Seaside Wolf

    So whose coming to Perth and where is a good place to have a beverage there ahead of the games? I’m on the east coast of Australia but will be making the six hour flight across to Perth. Anyone in Perth want to suggest a venue that we can make a temporary Wolves den? Nathan you coming mate? I’ll buy you a beer even though you have been fickle all season :o)

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  43. 43
    Wilko

    Nathan – I don’t think you are on WordsleyWolf’s Christmas Card list

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  44. 44
    spirite wolf

    39. Wordsley Wolf Why so extreme he has an opinion and he’s expressed it so be constructive not act like a two year old who’s just lost his dummy for some reason grow up.

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  45. 45
    Wilko

    WordsleyWolf – no 39: ‘clown’ & ‘loser’ – bit harsh maybe.

    This bloke (Nathan) givers up his spare time to write and administer this blog, a blog thart is by it’s very nature meant to be contentious as it is one man’s opinion.

    To do this and have to cop a load of personal insulta from you?

    i think that is too much and suggest you take it on and see how long it take you to get bored of doing it or sick of the mindless criticism!!

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  46. 46
    laughingwolf

    Players to keep below. I have it on good authority that Sam Vokes will spend the season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday next season to continue his development, we have the nucleas of an excellent side but we need quality and experienced premier league battlers, I expect Hull and Stke to get 2nd season syndrome next season:

    Murray
    Hennessey (keep unless we get offered 5 mil+)
    Stearman
    Berra
    Craddock (experience)
    Foley
    Jarvis
    Jones
    Kightly
    SEB
    Big Chris (bench only)

    Add:
    Huddlestone
    Craig Gardener
    Marlon Harewood (with a full pre season)
    Justin Hoyte
    Michael Mancienne
    Kevin Doyle
    Chris Eagles or Steven Hunt
    Kevin Nolan
    Shaun Davies
    Sol Campbell (free)
    Michael Ball (free)

    Report abuse

  47. 47
    Copenhagen Wolf

    I was one of the McCarthys critics last season, and rightly so.

    Does the fact that we are now promoted ruin the fact, that he has also made life a lot harder for himself by:
    1. Signing players such as Collins, Elliott, and numerous others who didnt have the quality for Wolves.

    2. Constantly playing players out of position.

    3. Saying rubbish as “we where different class” after games where everybody could see that we where bad.

    The reason people where frustrated last season was because our manager had no game plan, not motivational skills(it seemed) and an amazing lack of communication skills by hitting out at those who dared to critize him.

    Now he has won, and me and other Wolves fans celebrate.

    As much as Mick deserve credit for the work he has done this season, this is not HIS promotion, and the promotion doesnt cover the fact that he still have a lot to prove.

    Being critical is not the same as NOT being supportive. I’ve always supported Mick and whatever team he’s put out. But the moment we put away our ability to think, reflect and to voice our opinion about our beloved club, thats when I would really start to worry…

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  48. 48
    Molly Knew Mick

    I wanted Mick to go at the end of last season and despite a wonderful season in the Championship, I remain to be convinced he is the right manager for the Premiership.

    There is much about Mick I admire. I thought the graciousness with which he dealt with Roy Keane when he came to Molineux as manager of Sunderland when the assembled media wanted a punch-up was exemplary and he clearly inspires a lot of support amongst his players.

    On the downside, I think he is stubborn to the point of infuriation sometimes and I’m not sure he has the necessary nous to manage a top Premiership side.

    I hope I’m wrong and we become a Wigan or a Fulham but I shall reserve judgment. My argument was never about Mick as a Championship manager – his record in the Premiership is what I question and the lack of any explanation other than “I wasn’t given enough money. ” A little more self-reflection would be good.

    And whilst I’m alienating myself from everyone, it was wrong to invade the pitch. We were politely asked not to on several occasions and it’s a “no brainer” in my eyes. If you’re a paying guest on someone else’s property, you follow the owner’s rules.

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  49. 49
    Wolferoo

    I don’t think WordsleyWolf has quite mastered the art of reading tongue-in-cheek humour.

    Can’t imagine that Nathan’s written up a list of exactly 50 players.

    Give the guy a break, it can’t be easy doing what he does and he doesn’t need pathetic idiots like you taking a pop just because the opportunity is there.

    Report abuse

  50. 50
    nickthegreek

    48,Molly Knew Mick.
    last sentance,lighten up a bit ive followed wolves home and away for 21 years missing very few games waiting for a day like that.It was the best day ive ever had watching wolves because it was a Molineux.The people who own Wolves are only custodians it,s our club,the fan’s!

    We are Wolves

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  51. 51
    costa del wolf

    ##### THIS GOES OUT TO #####

    38.) SOUTH BANK BARMY ARMY.

    YOU my friend are a total hypacrite, out of everyone on here including GOBWOLF, NUGGET AND MOANY…

    YOU were the most unsupporting, negative, pesemist of them all

    YOU NEVER had a possitve thing to say and constantly slated ANDY KEOGH and others

    YOU SHOULD be coming on here saying sorry to ALL the Wolves player and ESPECIALY Mick McCarthy

    YOU CALL YOURSELF A WOLVES FAN

    Then have the guts to say you were WRONG

    WRONG about the team.
    WRONG about Mick McCarthy
    WRONG to boo and moan
    WRONG to slate us HAPPY CLAPPERS !

    SOUTH BANK BARMY ARMY…

    YOU HAVE BEEN NAMED AND SHAMED !!!

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  52. 52
    GB's Premier Yead

    REF: Mick McCarthy’s Numpty Comment

    I thought Mick had more sense than to keep stirring the pot with comments like these. Its downright stupidity on his part. What does he gain from these comments. Wouldn’t something along the lines of,
    “I respect the fans opinions. They pay their hard earned money to watch us. I hope I have convinced those that wanted me out that I am the right man to lead this club to a great future. With their support I’m convinced it can be achieved”.

    I find the comments he has made make him the numpty. A lesson in diplomacy wouldn’t go amiss over the summer.

    Make it easy on yourself Mick.

    Report abuse

  53. 53
    JLW

    I too criticized McCarthy last season and this.I still think he is way too pig-headed,arrogant, and guilty of playing his favourites–which nearly cost us dear at times.But credit where it’s due,he has got us promoted and that is all that matters.
    Everyone is entitled to an opinion whether people agree with you or not and what a boring world it would be if everyone thought the same.
    Anyway lets all enjoy the summer and look forward to next season and hope we make a better go of it than that lot down the road.

    Report abuse

  54. 54
    robert williams

    I think I have to put my hand up and thinking back he should have been sacked or at least warned because he failed to even make the play offs. I am set objectives for the year and risk being fired if I fail to meet them, why is MM any different? He has rode an incredible lucky streak this season thank goodness and right now he is my hero. Just hope by Christmas he still is. Well done Mick, great recovery from a poor performance last year.

    And Nathan stop apologising! Its okay to be wrong most of the time, we all are.

    Report abuse

  55. 55
    Notts Wolves

    I, for one am gonna stand up against McCarthys typical attack on Wolves fans. Let’s not forget that we have got there by default, fortunately the rest of the pack faultered at the same time as we did, it was almost unprecidented that we could stay top of the league over two months when we won only one game. The problem is with MM is he obviously sees it all as an ego trip for him and anyone who disagrees with him he will slam them with total disregard to how long they have supported the club. His comments today, calling anyone who might be critical of his management as “Numpties” is simply disgraceful. I love Wolverhampton Wanderers, but I despise the manager we have. When you move on, Mick, I will be one of the numpties left behind, while you are slagging off the supporters of your new club. Premier league or not, you have no class mate.

    Report abuse

  56. 56
    Neo

    I thank Mick for achieving promotion for Wolves but I still do not believe he has got what it takes for the Premier League, maybe he’ll prove me wrong, I hope so for the club and all of the fans sake.

    His tactics will need be much smarter in games next season and with prospect of signing Jody Craddock on a new deal, good for the squad however if that’s the best defender we will sign in the summer then we are going to be in trouble. We’ll have to see what Mick will do with what money he gets which is probably not going to be as big as the E&S have been reporting. Mick has done really well in finding young gems but not all of them are Premier League class, great for the Championship it’s going to be interesting to see who makes it; there might be a few surprises who will and who won’t make the grade.

    I’m also still annoyed at what has happened to certain Academy players, I would of liked to see Daniel Jones given a chance at left back or Mark Little who had his first game there, I also have doubts about whether we will see the likes of Kyle Bennett and Zeli Ismail within the future, plus others who may well do well out loan and still don’t get a look in like Gleeson.

    Mick has taken us back to the top flight and we are all delighted for that but can he really keep us there? The answer may well come in the summer transfers.

    Report abuse

  57. 57
    Grace

    FAO Truewolves

    Re – My coments on foreign players

    Mate, I wasn’t have a pop at the fact that the players we signed when last in the prem were foreign, it was because they were garbage & didn’t play many games between them, the fact that they were all foreign was just a coincidence.

    But the fact is that they were ‘a load of foreign rubbish’

    lol

    Must go, have to get ready to see us win the league!!!!

    KTF

    Wolves forever

    Report abuse

  58. 58
    truewolves

    57 grace , no worries totally agree with you , costa del wolf excellent post , wwfc champions 2009 , and to all the negative haters we are staying up , and if we dont i’ll run around queen square naked lol

    Report abuse

  59. 59
    sventhedancinghorse

    I didn’t post any “Mick out” comments, but I admit that I thought it and said it to many people. I also admit that I was completely wrong and I am glad I was. Nathan, you (and I) are not hypocritical to have got it wrong – we would be hypocritical if we tried to pretend otherwise.

    Well done Mick, the squad and the two other M’s for having the wisdom to resist pressure from the likes of you and I to see MM removed at the end of last season.

    I have enjoyed reading your blogs and usually agree with most of what you say, but as we have seen …. you (and I)aren’t always right!!!

    Report abuse

  60. 60
    Happy Wolf

    I would just like to say a Big Thank You to Mick,his Staff, the Players and Mr Morgan! Jez can go whistle. . .

    They’ve done a really fantastic job after what was a really difficult and at times awful season last year.

    The quality of football hasn’t always been up there this year and true we have struggled against some of the better equiped sides, but the Wolves Management team have built a squad fit for purpose and achieved their goal/ our goal!!!

    Congratulations Mick you’ve achieved where many a Wolves manager has failed in the past and now you’re in arguably the best league in world football with one of the most historic teams in english football. Come on me babbies!!!
    SING IT LONG AND SING IT LOUD I’M A WOLF AND PROUD…

    THANK YOU MICK

    Report abuse

  61. 61
    MOM WOLVES

    Good blog Nathan! Where have Bridget and Tony gone?

    Report abuse

  62. 62
    maltawolves

    Nathan a good blog many points i agree with,however i have commented throughout the season abouts MM’S infatuation with certain players who we all know will just not cut it in the prem.Micks last foray in the higher echelons with Sunderland was a disaster 105 goals conceded with Jody at the heart of the defence.Last time Wolves in Prem 77 goals conceded again JC at the heart of the defence.Now JC is being offered a new contract is this the way forward? I have followed the club for close on 47 years and will always love the Club.But i have removed my rosetinted specs and try to view the situation clearly MM has to move away from his favouritsm and sign proven premiership quality that can push us on to hopefully establish WWFC as A FOOTBALLING FORCE ONCE AGAIN.

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