Squad proved its quality, says Nuno

A Carabao Cup display which mirrored that of their Premier League performances for Wolves, despite nine changes, pleased Nuno Espirito Santo.

Against Leicester on Tuesday evening, only Conor Coady and Jonny Otto remained in the starting line-up from the weekend, but Wolves kept their standards high.

After battling out 90 goalless minutes against an experienced Leicester side, Nuno’s players were eliminated on spot kicks, but he remained positive post-match.

“Today was proof and evidence that we have a good squad,” he said. “It shows me I have a squad ready to go all season.

“Most important is the way we played, the boys did it the same way, changes didn’t mean anything. We kept the same style, the same ideas and the same philosophy.

“It doesn’t matter what competition, we wanted to win, I’m sad because we didn’t but proud of the players.”

Wolves settled and grew into the better side as the third round tie progressed in what was the first opportunity for some players to face Premier League opposition this season.

“It was a good game. It was intense and close. Leicester started strong, but I think we controlled the game from there on.

“Second-half we were the better team, created more chances and we tried to avoid penalties.

“For the second time in a row we go out of the competition without conceding. It’s not easy. We won’t think about the Carabao Cup until next season, it’s over, today we think about Saturday.”

Every member of Nuno’s squad applies themselves correctly in training every day and the head coach was pleased to see Ivan Cavaleiro make his first appearance of the campaign.

“Cav was injured but we managed to take him out of pain and now he’s getting better. Of course, we needed to manage the time he had on the pitch, but I’m pleased because he’s another option.

“The options are good, and the most important thing is the way the boys work for their chance. They work on a daily basis and when the chance comes good answers must be given and today they gave a good answer tonight.”