Express & Star

Takeover confusion as Wolves land in Ireland

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Wolves have landed in Ireland for a six-day pre-season trip – as confusion reigned over the ongoing situation.

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Kenny Jackett's side arrived at the Fota Island Resort in Cork yesterday afternoon.

The five-star resort – used by Fulham, Preston North End and the Republic of Ireland squad in recent weeks – will be their base until Friday.

Kevin McDonald is among the touring party, with his move to Fulham on hold after an agreement couldn't be reached between the player and the Cottagers.

Jackett arrived separately from the rest of the squad after attending supporters' club London Wolves' 50th anniversary dinner in the capital on Saturday evening.

Wolves will tonight take on Cork City in their only tour fixture. The boss is expected to field a team of predominantly younger players.

It will be against what will be a weakened Cork side, as they have a Europa League qualifier against Hacken on Thursday.

The likes of Niall Ennis, Connor Ronan and Aaron Hayden are likely to get a big chance to impress, with Wolves still unable to sign players ahead of the new season.

Jackett pulled no punches in his assessment of where the squad needed improving, admitting they were short on numbers.

He said: "I feel for our squad we have two experienced goalkeepers who have done well in pre-season.

"We have four fit defenders with Ethan Ebanks-Landell and Mike Williamson injured, we have six central midfield players, three wide-right players, not a natural wide left, and one recognised forward.

"We're short on numbers and short on competition and we're certainly short on balance. We all know that."

Meanwhile, the ongoing takeover talks continue behind the scenes.

It's believed red tape has held up the finalising of any imminent deal, in what have been frustratingly drawn-out negotiations for all concerned.

Reports yesterday suggested that Robin Li is not the man behind the prospective multi-million pound takeover.

The identity of the mystery buyer has yet to be confirmed by anyone at Molineux.