'Wow' - Ruben Neves reacts as Wolves confirm new signing at Molineux | OneFootball

Ruben Neves has sent a message to John Ruddy after his former Wolves teammate sealed a return to Molineux.

Rúben Neves has wished John Ruddy well after the goalkeeper sealed a surprise return to Wolves on a one-year deal.

The 39-year-old was a free agent this summer after leaving Newcastle United, and Wanderers confirmed on Thursday morning that they had signed the stopper on a 12-month contract.

That will see Ruddy return to familiar surroundings, as he spent five years at Molineux from 2017, which included starring for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side as they won the Championship title.

Rúben Neves sends message to John Ruddy after Wolves return

That was the best Wolves team for decades, so those who played a part in the rise of the club are fondly remembered by the supporters.

Neves was arguably the most popular of the lot, as he took a major chance by joining Wolves in the second tier, and he remained loyal even after impressing in the Premier League, and he ended up making over 250 appearances in Old Gold before leaving for Al Hilal in 2023.

Despite living in Saudi Arabia, Neves still keeps an eye on all things Wolves, and he has revealed he still watches the team when he can, as he backed Cesar Peixoto’s side for promotion this season.

So, it’s perhaps no surprise that Neves had something to say on Ruddy’s return, as he was a teammate of the keeper throughout his five years at the club.

And, taking to his Instagram story, the Portuguese international sent a message to Ruddy after his move was confirmed.

“Wow. All the best my friend.”

John Ruddy can bring a strong mentality to the Wolves squad

Ruddy is expected to be the number three goalkeeper at Wolves this season, so there is a chance that he won’t make an appearance.

Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean he won’t have a big role to play, as Ruddy will have been signed to be a positive influence in the dressing room.

Under Nuno, Ruddy was only the number one for his first season, with Rui Patricio signed as his replacement, and Jose Sa then taking the shirt, so he had four years as backup.

Yet, he was still highly respected in the dressing room, and, after a tough few years, Wolves understandably feel they need strong characters like that to help the group.

Neves will be aware of what Ruddy can offer on a day-to-day basis in terms of setting the standards, and most would agree that it looks a sensible bit of business for Peixoto, who now has another leader in the ranks.

Wolves fans will dream of Ruben Neves return in the future

As outlined above, Neves is regarded as a legend at Wolves due to his quality and loyalty, and fans will be delighted to see that he is still interested in the club.

The 29-year-old was very settled in the city during his six years at Wolves, and he had a very close bond with the fans, who still adore the midfielder.

So, it’s fair to say that most Wolves fans will hope that Neves can replicate Ruddy by rejoining the club at some point in the future.

Of course, that may not happen, and it certainly seems a long shot if they remain in the Championship, but if Wolves can offer Premier League football to Neves, it could be something he considers in the future if he fancies a return to England.