Wolves boss Nuno dismisses ‘favourites’ tag

Nuno’s charges are in the Armenian capital city, Yerevan for Thursday's third qualifying round first leg (5pm BST).

And they are heavily expected to come out on top, with odds of 1/5, ahead of the return leg at Molineux next week.

But Nuno said: “There are no favourites in football. The history of football shows that, every day.

“Football is one of the only sports that cannot be dictated by statistics.

“If you look at volleyball or basketball, there’s a big area of statistics and, normally, the teams with the better statistics win. In football, it doesn’t happen.

“You have to prepare well and play. Not get too focused on the opponent.

“I’m always very, very careful about that, so I don’t think about statistics in football.”

As Wolves kick off in Armenia, the transfer window shuts. Wolves appear unlikely to sign anyone before the deadline, but would like to move a few players on – including Leo Bonatini, Jordan Graham and Roderick Miranda.

“We’re going to travel, some people will stay here,” said Nuno.

“There’s always the phone that keeps you connected, worldwide. The market still open, so let’s see – when it’s closed we’ll talk about it. We never do it publicly. All the work we do is inside.”

Wolves’ last additions were Portuguese pair Pedro Neto and Bruno Jordao.

Neither have gone to Armenia, but when asked what they will bring to the table, Nuno added: “It’s always the same. New solutions, new options, and good things for us to expect.

“They’re talented boys, so let’s prepare them for playing in the best league in the world.”