Late winner delights Nuno

The style in which Wolves claimed all three points at West Ham United, through Adama Traore’s late winner, pleased Nuno Espirito Santo enormously.

The goal was typical of Nuno’s philosophy. Ruben Neves’ pressing earned possession, before Leo Bonatini rolled in Traore to finish with aplomb.

It came after 90 minutes of battling with the Hammers and means Wolves are now up and running for victories in the Premier League.

“The moment of recovering the ball with two minutes to go was huge,” Nuno said. “After 90 minutes one of our midfielders went high to press and won the dual.

“We know about West Ham on the counter attack, with the speed of the players, but we were fortunate to get on the counter attack with the high pressing of Ruben and deserved it.

“It feels good. Even if we didn’t win I would be happy because we worked hard. We are happy and for our fans it’s massive, to come here and get three points.”

Wolves had chances to make the win more comfortable, while Rui Patricio produced two fine saves to deny the hosts during a much-improved second-half at the London Stadium.

“If you look at the game, both teams could have won it, but I felt we were more in control of the game. When we have the ball we know to keep it and create chances in wide areas.

“The only thing you can think is to try and win it. It was a tough game but it’s one more step in the way we want to go.

“Of course, sometimes you have to be more clinical. We had opportunities and we’ll look at the next game.”

Nuno now sees nine of his first-team depart on international duty and will be left to reflect on a positive first month back in the Premier League for Wolves.

“Now is the moment to rest and look at the games, how we’ve started and how we prepared for pre-season. We still have a lot to improve so let’s work hard on other aspects of our game.

“We are improving even if we don’t have a result, the way we manage games and establish standards. This is the way I want you to.

“We have an international break, all the best to the boys with their national teams, and this is our reference point for when we come back, the way we were today.”