Preston 0 Wolves 0 - player ratings

Wolves correspondent Tim Spiers rates the players after Paul Lambert's first game ends in a goalless draw at Preston.

Andy Lonergan

A second appearance in succession for Lonergan, owing to Carl Ikeme's injury. Had very little to do on his first return to Deepdale since leaving in 2011, with Preston only mustering two shots on target. Has given Paul Lambert a tough decision to make when Ikeme returns, with the boss saying Lonergan has been making saves "you wouldn't believe" in training. 7/10

Dominic Iorfa

Kept Callum Robinson quiet for the most part. One good attacking foray in the first half when he skipped past his man – something rarely seen from Iorfa of late. Lacked protection from Helder Costa at times and was lucky not to give away a penalty when he appeared to bundle Hugill over in the box. 7/10

Danny Batth

After the nightmare of his last appearance when he was booed by his own fans, this was exactly the sort of game Batth needed. Looks short of confidence but he had plenty of cover in the form of Jack Price and Conor Coady and, like the rest of the defence, he wasn't unduly troubled. Suspended for the Sheffield Wednesday game after picking up his fifth booking of the campaign. 7/10

Kortney Hause

Perhaps a surprise to see him start, with many expecting a recall for the shunned Richard Stearman, but he justified his manager's faith. Lambert called him 'outstanding'. He did, though, very nearly gift Preston a 95th-minute winner when he dallied in possession. "He won't do that again," Lambert said. 7/10

Matt Doherty

One of Wolves' few attacking threats during a game in which they only produced one shot on target. Doherty got forward to good effect in the first half and then produced Wolves' first shot in the 58th minute which wasn't too far wide. Largely untroubled in defence and played his part in a good defensive display. 7/10

Jack Price

A complete mystery as to why this guy has been nowhere near the first team. His first start since September 13 and he reminded Wolves what they'd missed. Expert protection of the back four and used the ball wisely. Wolves always look better with Price in the side, particularly away from home. 8/10

Conor Coady

Pressed the ball in midfield and didn't give Preston a minute's peace. Revels in that role. His passing wasn't as good as it could have been, although to be fair he often had a lack of options. Could be a key player under Lambert. 7/10

Helder Costa

Wolves were relying on him to bring some spark and creativity on the break, but he didn't provide it. Barely in the game. Did his fair share of running but well below his best here, with no end product to speak of. 5/10

Bright Enobakhare

Not the ideal game for him to show off his considerable talent. There was just no room for him to play in. Tried to link up with Bodvarsson but he found it tough against a mean Preston defence. Plenty more to come from him, though, and a great show of faith from Lambert to throw him in. Must be remembered that he is still just 18 years old. 6/10

George Saville

His primary function was to provide a holding role on that left flank and he gave Doherty plenty of assistance. Tidy and composed, but gave nothing in an attacking sense. 6/10

Jon Dadi Bodvarsson

Continues to lack the x-factor he showed in those opening weeks. Not much is coming off for him at the moment. One ambitious overhead kick aside he didn't have a sniff of goal - a recurring theme of late. Does he need a break? 6/10

Substitutes

Jed Wallace (for Enobakhare, 64)

A disappointing cameo from the winger who made no impact. Would have been interesting to see him in the '10' role, but Costa was moved there instead. 6/10

Nouha Dicko (for Costa, 78)

Six appearances since his return and it's clear that a goal would do wonders for his confidence. Two decent chances from headers but he couldn't convert. Got in good positions, though, which was promising. 6/10