Scott Golbourne back to best as contract ticks down

Defender Scott Golbourne believes he's getting back to his best form – and has praised the impact of Mike Williamson on Wolves' recent defensive performances.

Golbourne endured a frustrating 2014/15 with foot injury meaning, by his own admission, he could only play at 80 per cent.

He found himself in and out of the side with youngster Kortney Hause often preferred at left-back.

This season has been a different story, though, with Golbourne missing just one league game.

And a return to full fitness has coincided with a return to form with the former Barnsley man putting in a string of impressive performances in recent weeks.

He will now be looking to earn a new contract, with his current deal expiring next summer.

"It's been really pleasing to have a run of games," he said. "I'm managing to keep on top of my fitness – hopefully I can stay injury free and keep performing.

"If you can perform to a seven

or eight (out of 10) each week as a base, it breeds confidence and I think I'm somewhere near that at the moment.

"As any player, you need a run of games, especially a defender. It helps get your confidence back."

After conceding nine goals in three matches against Middlesbrough, Brentford and Derby County, Wolves let in just one goal in their next three games against Blues, Bristol City and Burnley.

That coincided with the arrival of Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson, who has impressed after joining initially for a month on loan from the Premier League side.

And Golbourne hailed Williamson's influence on the team.

"Him coming in, that little bit of

experience, it helps," Golbourne added.

"We lost a bit with (Richard) Stearman going so it's good to have some experience through the core of the team, centre-half and midfield players – you do need it there, so that's steadied us up a little bit.

"We've made a conscious effort to keep goals against to a minimum. We've been a little unlucky at times, but we've done quite well in the last few games.

"There's not been many chances for the opposition which is comforting and gives us some confidence."