Injury revealed as Wolves boss defends striker's form
Vitor Pereira has launched a passionate defence of Jorgen Strand Larsen as he revealed the striker has been playing with a broken hand.
The Norwegian was spotted with a heavily bandaged hand and wrist as he struggled against Everton's physical defenders in the 1-1 draw last time out.
Pereira has now revealed the extent of Larsen's injury and said the forward found it difficult to fend off opposition players due to the pain.
"I must say something to defend Larsen," the head coach said.
"Two days before the match he broke his hand - a bone in his hand. He played with protection.
"For a striker, if you don't have your hands to play, it's a big problem.
"We played with him and he tried his best.
"Now, he's better because he doesn't feel too much pain.
"In the game he felt the pain and his focus was on the fracture, not (the game).
"If the ball comes to him and he needs to hold it up he needs to protect the ball and he wasn't able to do it.
"For a striker that's a big problem.
"He's been training with the protection and doesn't feel the pain, so now he can help us.
"But we cannot crucify the player because he tried to help with this problem."
Larsen's performance led to some criticism from supporters who were frustrated with his display.
The summer signing has managed seven Premier League goals this season but has now failed to score in seven top flight fixtures.
He came close with a shot that Toffees goalkeeper Jordan Pickford did well to save, but has otherwise been unable to have a huge impact on games since recovering from his recent injury.
"Of course, but the people didn't know about this," Pereira said when asked if Larsen needs to be supported instead of criticised.
"It's normal (for there to be criticism).
"To get out of pressure, the striker must hold the ball up to give time for the team and he wasn't in the condition to do it.
"There's frustration and he tried to help but it was not possible to do better.
"We need to support him because he's a fighter.
"He's a player that, in the right conditions, gives everything of himself.
"He has a very good character, he's a fighter."
Larsen's loan from Celta Vigo will be made permanent in the summer, in a £23million move.
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