Matt Doherty believes big names are on the way to Wolves
Irish wing-back Matt Doherty expects ‘some big names’ to join Wolves this summer – for ‘quite substantial fees'.
The 26-year-old played a huge part in the club’s return to the top flight but knows he cannot rest on his laurels.
Diogo Jota, Willy Boly and Benik Afobe have already been snapped up on permanent deals for a combined £33million and Doherty, who will be playing in the Premier League for the first time, is excited to prove himself once again.
“We’re definitely going to bring in some players — probably some big names for quite substantial fees,” he said.
“I guess we have to prove ourselves in the Premier League.
“We obviously did that last season in the Championship and people say ‘Oh, they might do well’, thinking we can finish in the top 10 or whatever, but that’s not what I’m thinking anyway.
“We’ve got to prove ourselves first and see if we can cope with it, then see what happens from there. We’ll be going into the season full of confidence after what we achieved last season.
“(I’m looking forward to) just seeing if I’m good enough, to be honest.
“Seeing if I’m good enough to hold my own against some of the best players in the world.
“Hold my own and do my own thing as well, cause some problems and see how I can play.
“That’s the most exciting bit, just to see where my game is really at.”
As well as confirming he can cope with the demands of the Premier League, Doherty is determined to become a regular starter for Ireland.
He currently has one cap to his name.
“I’ve been in quite a few squads lately, I’m not playing but I’ve just got to feel fortunate that I’m in and around it, I guess,”said Doherty.
“Maybe if I can solidify my place in the Premier League next season, that’ll be the main thing to do now.
“It can only help playing in, for me, the best league in the world.
“If I can have a good pre-season and get myself in the team, it’s not going to hinder my chances.
“Obviously, (Everton’s) Seamus (Coleman) is playing in that position and he’s a top-class player who has been playing in the Premier League for years, so I’ve a lot of catching up to do.
“I’ll give it my best go and see how I get on next season.”
