Wolves blog: What we learned in Austria

Thanks to Wolves streaming the three friendlies on their website, those who couldn’t make it to Austria were able to get a decent glimpse of the new era...writes Wolves blogger Tom Tracey.

Playing in front of sparse crowds meant we could hear as well as see what was happening on the pitch.

Head Coach Nuno Espirito Santo ordered the team about constantly, reminding them where they should be, to keep shape, to offer support.

It was interesting to hear what a man - who has been silent in the media so far - had to say, giving us a view into how he manages matches.

Another ‘shouter’ and surprise inclusion in defence was Conor Coady.

Taking up yet another new position at centre back, he was even more vocal than Nuno with advice and encouragement for all the team.

Who would have guessed that, having signed so many new defenders, Coady would be taking up the position in central defence – and playing more minutes than all of the other defenders?

There is something impressive about Coady that all of his Wolves managers have noticed, as they seem to want to include him in their team wherever they can.

Paul Lambert used Conor Coady as a right back, where he did a solid job and ended up in the top three for last year’s Player of the Season.

The new formation and strengthening of the squad left Coady’s place seemingly in doubt, but so far it looks as though he is being considered as a central option.

His leadership, organisation and simple but solid play are definitely positive attributes to bring to the team – whether he remains a starter for Wolves or as a squad player, he definitely brings some value and versatility to the team.

Two of Coady’s new central defensive teammates look as though they certainly have a lot to offer.

Roderick Miranda looks so comfortable and classy on the ball – his marauding run against Jablonec reminded of a certain Richard Stearman.

Willy Boly, the man with all the chants, is an absolute tower of a defender and his physical prowess will be sorely needed in the Championship.

Looking at the midfield, Jack Price appears to have come back from the cold yet again in his Wolves career – a 3-4-3 formation appears to suit his skills more closely and he looks to be in Nuno’s plans.

However, the best midfield pairing could be Connor Ronan and Ruben Neves – both have probably the greatest natural ability out of the midfield options at the club, and can help the team’s moves flow, getting the ball around the pitch efficiently.

Wolves have desperately missed the services of Helder Costa and Jordan Graham on this trip.

Ivan Cavaleiro has performed well – he has been providing assists and hasn’t overplayed the ball as he was prone to do last season.

Other than Cavaleiro, the options out wide are limited – Joe Mason and Bright Enobakhare have been used, but they don’t quite fit the formation.

What immediate future they have is in question, as once Wolves’ first choice wingers return, there won’t be much space for them.

It is clear Wolves need additional striking options, although Nouha Dicko has impressed in Austria, scoring twice.

This 3-4-3- formation really suits his play, as both through balls and low crosses across the six-yard box are more likely to reach Dicko as opposed to long overhead balls.

Aside from Dicko, Wolves really need more striking options as a priority.

Two wins against top flight European opposition, the first glimpse at new signings and new tactics – it has been a productive trip in Austria.

The hard work must continue over the next fortnight in the run up to the Championship opener.