‘Need these players’ - Cesar Peixoto reveals two key Wolves dressing room figures

Veterans Kieran Trippier and John Ruddy have been hailed as key figures in the Wolves dressing room as Cesar Peixoto’s side navigate a difficult spell.

The Wolves boss has underlined the importance of their experience and leadership amid a mounting injury list, disappointing results and the presence of several youngsters in his squad.

Trippier is part of the club’s leadership group and captained Wolves. in their frustrating return to Molineux after the international break. Peixoto believes players of his calibre will be crucial in helping the team through the challenges ahead.

He said: “Kieran a captain and a very experienced player. He’s a key player for us, both on and off the pitch. The way he trains, the way he speaks and the respect his teammates have for him are all very important.

“It’s the same with Raul. These players are important not only when they’re playing, but also when they’re off the pitch.

“John Ruddy is another important player in these moments. We have a young team, and these experienced players can help everyone stay calm during games and difficult periods. They can speak with their teammates in the dressing room. I believe in this kind of leadership.

“I’m the leader, but I think inside the dressing room we need these players too. We need a balance between young and experienced players. Kieran is one of our most important players because of that.”

Trippier has established himself as a regular after overcoming knee problems that disrupted his start to the season. Ruddy, meanwhile, returned to the club this summer and has provided a valuable presence behind the scenes despite limited involvement on the pitch.

Wolves have struggled to regain their momentum since the international break, with little respite in the schedule. They face three consecutive home games against Portsmouth, Watford and Cardiff City across 11 days.

Despite recent setbacks leaving them trailing the leading sides, Peixoto insists there is still plenty of time to turn things around and has urged his squad to remain united.

“It’s a difficult moment,” he added. “We have to be clear about that. The injuries, the defeats and the time we have to recover the players make it difficult.

“We have to manage the players so they’re physically ready for three games close together, and next week we have another three games. But these moments happen during a season.

“We’ve played nine games and we still have another 37 to go. There are a lot of games. In these moments, we have to stay together, adapt where we need to and fight with the players who are ready.

“I don’t want to talk too much about the problems. I have to manage them, find solutions and try to win games.

“I always look at things positively. It’s an opportunity for players to show their quality. It’s also a moment for me to see what the whole squad can offer this season.

“If we get through this difficult period, I think things will go in the right direction again. I don’t have any doubts about that.”