Why Newcastle United fans should have one eye on Wolves v West Brom | OneFootball

Newcastle fans will be hoping to see Sean Neave take his chance when Wolves play West Brom on Sunday, with ex-player Adam Armstrong also set to play.

Wolves were dealt a huge blow ahead of their game against bitter rivals West Brom after Raul Jimenez suffered a knee injury.

The Mexican international was a surprise inclusion as Cesar Peixoto rotated his side for their EFL Cup fixture at Everton, which the Premier League side won 1-0.

However, from Wolves’ perspective, the game was overshadowed by the injury to their talisman, and whilst the issue isn’t as bad as first feared, Jimenez will not be involved this weekend.

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Sean Neave was an unexpected signing for Wolves

The 35-year-old’s absence has given Peixoto a headache in terms of what to do, with Adam Armstrong likely to start as the central striker.

Yet, the ex-Southampton man has struggled as the number nine this season, as he lacks the physical profile to keep the ball up and bring others into play.

Therefore, Sean Neave could be given an opportunity, with the striker a Deadline Day arrival from Newcastle United on loan.

The forward is highly-rated by the Magpies, but it was expected that he would join a League One side in search of regular minutes, so the move to Wolves was a big jump up.

Even though it’s early days, Neave has impressed in a brief cameo against Birmingham, and at Hill Dickinson for the full 90 minutes.

Sean Neave is likely to feature for Wolves in Black Country derby v West Brom

So, Neave is almost certain to play some part for Wolves against Albion, and it will be a baptism of fire for the 19-year-old in terms of his first outing at Molineux.

Neave has shown he has the ability to carry the ball with his pace, and his willingness to run in behind could be just what Wolves need against a Baggies side that will be determined to make it tough for the hosts.

Due to his lack of experience, you could understand if Neave would be nervous, but he should see this as a great opportunity to show what he can do.

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Peixoto told the player that he won’t pick individuals based on their reputation, and that Neave’s age wouldn’t be used against him.

But, with Armstrong and Jimenez at the club, it was always going to be difficult for the England youth international to get game time, although the injury to the latter has now opened up the door for Neave to show what he can do.

Newcastle fans will hope Sean Neave takes his chance at Wolves

There were many Newcastle fans who were unhappy with Neave’s loan due to the competition for places, as they just wanted to see the youngster get a chance to play regularly.

We know how players need minutes to get into a rhythm, and there were fears that Neave would spend a chunk of his time at Wolves on the bench.

Of course, that could still be the case when Jimenez returns, but Neave should get some meaningful time against Albion, and all at the Magpies will be hoping he can grasp this chance with both hands.

If, for example, he did score the winner in this fixture, it would improve Neave’s confidence, make him a firm favourite with the fans, and it should ensure he immediately earns the trust of Peixoto. So, Newcastle fans will have one eye on this clash, as it could be a huge game for Neave.

Adam Armstrong can help Sean Neave at Wolves

As well as that, there is another Newcastle connection at Molineux, with Armstrong another player who came through the ranks at St. James’ Park.

Ultimately, the 29-year-old had to leave to really get his career going, and he has established himself as a top Championship performer over the years.

Neave will no doubt look to learn a lot from Armstrong during his time with Wolves, and Newcastle fans will expect the former player to be a mentor for the academy graduate.

The two north-east lads will know all about the intensity of local derby games, and they will both be looking to make their mark in the Black Country by firing the Old Gold to a crucial victory.

With Kieran Trippier also involved, it’s fair to say that many Newcastle fans may be wishing Wolves well for the big game.