Striker can still Cut it for Nuno
PATRICK CUTRONE has been told not to worry about his lack of goals since arriving at Wolves.
Boss Nuno Espirito Santo says he is not losing any sleep over his £20m striker’s disappointing return of just one goal in 16 appearances.
Despite that, the former AC Milan star has become a cult figure at Molineux since his summer switch.
The 21-year-old is expected to be thrown into the Carabao Cup derby at Aston Villa tonight with Nuno expected to rest leading scorer Raul Jimenez.
“He’s integrating into the dynamic of the team, it’s not easy to be already where we expect him to be,” said Nuno.
“It takes time but the best thing is he’s on to it, he wants it and he works hard. We’re expecting good things from him.
“He’s a fighter. We expect him to improve and keep growing as a player.
He’s been working very well for the team.”
Cutrone’s only goal came in Wolves’ 5-2 home defeat to Chelsea in September.
“It’s not easy, it’s a challenge,” said Nuno.
“This is what we want from players, to be taken out of their comfort zone and always be able to upgrade their performances.”
Villa keeper Tom Heaton says Dean Smith’s men should get themselves ready for a red-hot atmosphere when they face their local rivals.
Heaton says there has been a buzz around the dressing room with a quarter-final place up for grabs.
“The lads have been talking about how hostile that will be. A local derby, under the lights, it’ll be a great atmosphere,” he said.
“It’s a big game in midweek and one we’re looking forward to. We want to go as far as we can in the competition.”