Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Nuno: Raul’s not far from a comeback
RAUL JIMENEZ is on course to play again this season having made remarkable progress following his skull fracture.
The Wolves striker needed emergency surgery after a clash of heads with Arsenal’s David Luiz in late November but has astonished medical experts by his recovery.
Initial fears the Mexico international might not play again have been banished and boss Nuno Espirito Santo could not hide his delight as he gave the latest update on a possible return date for the 29-year-old.
Wolves have won only one of nine Premier League games without the £30million forward – against today’s opponents Chelsea.
Asked if there was any chance of a Jimenez comeback before the end of the campaign,
Espirito Santo said: “We are truly positive this can happen. It’s very good news with the way he keeps improving day by day.
“His progress has not only surprised me, but also the medical staff. He’s doing really, really well.
“Just seeing him running and lifting weights, and doing all these strong training sessions, is a big lift for everyone.”
He added: “First of all, it’s the man. It’s Raul. What we want back is Raul healthy and we will get him back as an important player for the team. It’s a big lift for us just having him around.
“We’ve a medical plan and there are very responsible decisions to be made because of how serious the injury was. We have to be really patient and take the right decisions.
“This will require a decision from the surgeon. It requires tests and scans on the skull and all these things take time. We will not rush or take any kind of risks.”
The Wolves boss said he was not concerned about possible mental side effects from the injury, adding: “That part isn’t a worry for us – he’s exactly the same guy, always with a smile on his face.”
Wolves have signed Brazilian striker Willian Jose from Real Sociedad on loan until the end of the season but are waiting on a work permit.