Wolves boss explains how Jordan James can break into Championship XI

The midfielder is yet to start in the league since joining on a season-long loan from Rennes, with Peixoto instead preferring to pair Marshall Munetsi alongside Andre in the middle of the park.

James will get another chance to stake his claim in Wednesday’s third round Carabao Cup tie at Everton, where is poised to make his first start since last month’s second round win over Sheffield Wednesday.

And while Peixoto has reassured James he has a major part to play but has explained to the 22-year-old where he needs to improve.

“I talked to him this week. He needs to play more, more time, change little things without the ball,” said Peixoto, after confirming James will be in the team at Everton.

“With the ball you have quality but you have to react stronger, you have to be more aggressive when we lose the ball. You have to be more in the defensive way, stronger in the duels.

“But it's normal. He's 22 years old and a player we have a lot of confidence in. For sure he's going to play in the starting eleven in the future in our team.

“But it's a process. Marshall has been doing a great job and he has to wait for his opportunity. When the opportunity comes, go and stay in the team.”

Peixoto is keen for his players to engage in friendly rivalries as they compete for places in the team.

The boss made a big call by leaving Raul Jimenez out of the line-up for Sunday’s match at Sheffield United and it paid off, with the veteran striker coming off the bench to score a 90th minute winner.

James was also one of the five substitutes brought off the bench.

“We have to fight. I say it all the time,” said Peixoto. “If the players fight each other in the training sessions during the week, we're going to stay stronger to compete against other teams.

“I want this kind of fighting inside of the team, with all the respect, for sure. To improve the players individually but improve the team collectively also.”