The Portuguese forward took home the trophy for the opening month of 2023 after more than half of supporters who voted selecting him from the shortlist of four worthy recipients.
Many members of Julen Lopetegui’s side put in impressive performances across the month, which saw Wolves lose just once in the Premier League – against reigning champions Manchester City – while also earning draws on the road at Villa Park and Anfield.
But it was Podence who supporters believed was the man who stood out most in January, as the forward produced the goods in front of goal to help his side secure their four Premier League points.
He opened his account against Aston Villa. During a first-half display which saw the team in gold and black dominate, Podence played a short corner to Joao Moutinho before picking the ball back up, driving into the box, turning two Villa players and curling his effort inside the far post, leaving World Cup Golden Glove winner Emi Martinez with no chance of making the save.
Ten days later, the 27-year-old was at it again. Back at Molineux for the first time in 2023, Wolves faced West Ham in a crucial battle between two sides near the drop zone, and following a goalless first 45 minutes, Podence struck the only goal of the game early in the second period as he diverted the ball home following a quick break.
Podence faced tough competition for the award, with Nathan Collins, Ruben Neves and Matheus Nunes also in contention, but the goals Podence racked up proved to be the clincher in getting supporters’ votes.
January Castore Player of the Month results:
- Podence 52.1%
- Collins 24.4%
- Neves 12.9%
- Nunes 10.6%
