Gary O'Neil: Joe Hodge still in Wolves plans
Gary O'Neil insists Joe Hodge is still in his Wolves plans and has 'no issue' with the midfielder calling for more game time.
The 21-year-old, who has yet to play in the Premier League this season, cut a frustrated figure in the international break when he revealed how unhappy he is with his lack of minutes and that he will seek a move in January if not given a chance at Wolves.
When asked about those comments, O'Neil has given Hodge reassurance that he is still part of his plans and he understands where those comments came from.
"I have no issue with Joe Hodge whatsoever," O'Neil said.
"He's had some injury issues that have stopped his momentum and he's still carrying a niggle or two at the moment, even when he trains and plays.
"He's in my plans but I've been a player and I understand when you're not playing as much as you want (you will be frustrated), but there's about 14 every week that don't play as much as they want.
"Joe would fall into that and as a footballer you have your own decisions to make on what that means for you, whether you're happy to stay and fight or want to move.
"That is a normal situation and I don't have any problems with Joe whatsoever."
Meanwhile, O'Neil was in attendance at the recent under-21s win over PSV in the International Cup at Molineux.
Following that, a number of academy talents travelled with the first team at the weekend.
"I thought it was a good performance," O'Neil said when asked who impressed him.
"Nathan (Fraser) did well and led the line well. I've spoken to him about it and a few things where I think he could improve, which he knows already and he's very keen to hear what we think and what he can improve on.
"Tawanda (Chirewa) did well, he looked very lively. Matty (Whittingham) in the middle of the park was good, and defensively they were sound as well, so there was a few.
"It was nice to watch them play in what is a big game for them against a good side at Molineux. I enjoyed it and there were some positive performances."
Nathan Fraser remains fourth choice striker at Wolves but made the bench against the Cherries, as he looks for a first team chance.
"He's in my thoughts and has been in my thoughts since I arrived," O'Neil added.
"He's been in and around a few squads and he's pushing. He needs to keep pushing and of course he's only young, so there's lots of time for him, but I'm keen for him to push the ones in front of him.
"I'm keen for him to keep working and he'll be around it this season."
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