Michael Mancienne is caught between a rock and a hard place tomorrow as his current temporary club Wolves tackle his parent club Chelsea.

There's probably a semblance of relief that the terms of his season-long loan agreement mean he is unable to play.

But the versatile England-under-21 international admits an exciting afternoon is in store as the young Wolves side prepare to give it their all against a team of top stars who Mancienne knows all about.

"'Everyone is excited about tomorrow because it is a massive game and they will be playing against world class opponents which is a big thing for the Wolves players, a good challenge," he says.

Mancienne has certainly been enjoying his time at Wolves as he picks up the top flight experience which he hopes will one day see him return to fight for a place in the Chelsea line-up.

It has also seen him operate as a holding midfielder rather than his more accustomed centre back role,  adding flexibility to his list of qualities.

"I am enjoying playing holding midfield at the minute," he says.

"I think it is best to be able to play more than one position anyway because it gives me more opportunity to be able to play when I go back to Chelsea.

"I have been playing a lot of first team games and getting a lot of experience and playing against better opposition improves you even more, especially as every game matters.

"Mick McCarthy has managed for a long time and he is experienced.

"Even when I am playing in midfield he still tells me a lot about what I should be doing in the position I am in now and gives me a lot of help."

* An extended interview with Michael Mancienne appears in the matchday magazine for tomorrow's game.