Shaping The Squad

Gaffer to assess players - while aiming for results

Paul Lambert says preliminary talks are already underway as to how to shape the Wolves squad in the January transfer window.

The influx of summer signings has left the squad packed with players, and the Head Coach is keen to trim the numbers to try and keep everyone feeling involved.

He admits his assessment of the players will take place with Sporting Director Kevin Thelwell over the coming weeks, at the same time as the main priority – getting results.

“We had a brief chat, looking at the squad,” said Lambert.

“I haven’t really seen them play so it’s a difficult thing to do.

“Obviously there’s training, but the games are the proof as to who can do what and who can’t.

“I’ve said before, the squad is far too big. We’ll have to look at that and trim it down. I’ll try and work with a set number that I think I can work with.

“I’ll assess it over the next few weeks. But it’s not just trial and error – you’ve got to win games as well. The good ones will get on board and the ones that struggle...that’s the nature of the game, it’s unforgiving.

“I’ll always try and be fair with everybody and do it the right way.”

And Lambert is keen to look for quality with any new additions he is able to add to the squad.

“I’ve always thought that (about bringing in quality),” Lambert added.

“I don’t think you can keep flooding any football club with people that are not going to play.

“When you have too many it can be a problem – and when you have too few it can be a problem.

“You know January’s coming, you know the squad is full when everybody is fit.

“And if we can get one or two in to help the lads, that’s what we’ll do.”

Lambert is also confident there are young players coming through the ranks at Wolves who are also in with a good chance of gracing the first team in the future.

The Head Coach was present at Tuesday’s Under-18’s draw against Liverpool and has watched the Under-23s Checkatrade Trophy win against Accrington Stanley on DVD.

““I’m keeping an eye on the young players and I was really pleased with them,” he said.

“I don’t want to name names but there are some top kids in there.

“It’s important they stay on the right path, but if they keep performing the way they are then I’ll be really pleased – there’s a lot of talent.