Express & Star

John Ruddy excited by Rafa Mir’s start at Wolves

New signing Rafa Mir has made an encouraging start to life in English football, Wolves keeper John Ruddy believes.

Published

The 20-year-old forward has played twice so far, coming off the bench towards the end of both 0-0 draws against Swansea in the FA Cup and Barnsley in the Championship.

Mir will now hope to start tomorrow’s third-round FA Cup replay at the Liberty Stadium.

Ruddy has been impressed with what he’s seen from the Spaniard so far.

The keeper said: “He’s been good, it’s obviously difficult for a young lad coming over to England and experience a different culture and language.

“He’s adapted really well, again much like the rest of the lads who joined in the summer.

“He’s been warmly welcomed and taken into the fold in the dressing room.

“I thought he made a really good contribution on Saturday when he came on.”

Wolves’ draw at Oakwell extended their unbeaten run to 14 matches in all competitions and saw Ruddy keep his 15th clean sheet of the season.

Ruddy added: “We were a little bit downbeat (in the dressing room) but I think that’s a good sign.

“It was the same when we went to Millwall – again a tough place to go but you pick up a point.

“I think they’ll be positive points come the end of the season.

“We’ve given ourselves a fantastic opportunity but there’s 19 games left.

“It’s a very focused and determined group.

“The fans were absolutely tremendous. I’ve played at Oakwell a few times and that’s the most full I’ve ever seen the away end.

“I’m sure they’re enjoying what they’re watching at the moment.”