Wolves' Andy Lonergan hails Matt Murray influence

The 32-year-old has signed from Fulham on a two-year deal, with Wolves having the option of a third season.

He arrives with more than 350 games of league experience under his belt.

And the Preston-born stopper said Murray played a key part in his career when the pair were in rehabilitation together.

"Matt Murray was pretty influential on me when I was younger," Lonergan said.

"I had a few injuries and ended up doing rehab with Matt – he was a top keeper and it was such a shame he had to end his career early.

"I still speak to him a lot."

Aside from Murray, what else does Lonergan know about Wolves?

"I've played against Wolves a lot," he said.

"I always remember during my days with Preston that we always had some right good games with Wolves.

"It is a great arena to play football.

"The game for Fulham last year I remember it was wet and cold and windy and we got a bit of a 'doing'.

"I know some of the lads only really from playing against them.

"I was with Joe Mason at Bolton so I know him quite well."

A lack of experience was often Wolves' undoing last season, as admitted by boss Kenny Jackett.

Lonergan is the joint-oldest member of his new squad, along with Wolves' last permanent signing Mike Williamson, who is also 32.

He hopes to pass on that experience to a young Wolves squad.

Lonergan added: "I would like to think I am quite a good character to have around the place – I don't really have any enemies!

"Hopefully the experience I have can help some of the younger players and that is what happens when you get to a certain age.

"At Fulham there were some really talented young lads who have got their heads screwed on and as an experienced player you try to be there for them to help if you can.

"I have been in the game a long time and things can come up where you can maybe help the younger players if they haven't experienced it before.

"It is such a difficult league and every year it gets harder.

"Look at Newcastle and the teams that have come down and they are going to be a big threat.

"But in this league, it can be anybody's.

"You have got to put the work in, regardless of how good you are.

"At Fulham we probably had one of the best squads in the league on paper but look where we finished.

"It is a tough league and it is about hard work.

"The young lads here who I played against last season were outstanding so fingers crossed we can have a good season."