Nuno expects a Championship cracker as Wolves take on Bristol City

The division’s top two meet at Ashton Gate with leaders Wolves, who sit eight points ahead of the hosts, aiming to further extend their lead at the top.

But Nuno is under no illusion as to the challenge posed by Lee Johnson’s Robins, who have won five of their last six and knocked Manchester United out of the Carabao Cup for good measure.

“We expect a tough game. Lee Johnson is doing a fantastic job and Bristol City are playing well,” he said. “We cannot forget what they did against Manchester United. But we are also doing well. We have our own questions to pose for them.

“It is going to be first of all a tough game but also, I think a very good game.”

Nuno and Johnson are old friends having taken their coaching badges together.

“It was quite a few years ago,” smiled the Wolves boss. “We have both come a long way.

“He is doing a fantastic job. Congratulations to him. I’ll speak to him on Saturday, before and after the game.”

Wolves have been boosted by the news Ivan Cavaleiro and Willy Boly are available for selection.

Both were forced off with injury during the 2-2 Boxing Day draw at Millwall but have recovered sufficiently to be in contention.

Top scorers in the Championship with 45 goals, Wolves have nevertheless been made to work harder in recent weeks by opponents whose primary aim has been to

frustrate.

The draw at the Den was the second time in four games they have been held, while they have not won by more than a single goal since the 5-1 win over Bolton on November 25.

Nuno has been encouraged by the manner his players have stood up to the challenge.

“Every team is trying to adapt and block our game,” he said. “It is up to us to find solutions and I am pleased the way we have been able to deal with that and manage our performance and try to achieve results on each game.

“It is a long competition, There is still a long way to go. It does not change our dynamic, our routine.

“We prepare the players for each game well and are ready to go. We are ready to go on Saturday.”