Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
WOLVES’ BOOST ON JIMENEZ RETURN
Crewe Wolves
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BY JOHN RICHARDSON RAUL JIMENEZ shows the kind of blistering pace that struck fear into Premier League defences last season before his horrific head injury.
It was his long-awaited comeback from the fractured skull that had forced him out since November when an accidental collision with Arsenal’s David Luiz left him needing emergency surgery.
Around 2,000 fans saw the Mexico international, 30, make a 33-minute cameo at Gresty Road in Wolves’ pre-season defeat to the League One side.
For new Wolves boss Bruno Lage (below) Jimenez’s return provided a timely boost as he ushers in a fresh Molineux era following Nuno Espirito Santo’s departure.
The only outward sign of Jimenez’s horrific injury was the protective headgear he must wear for the rest of his career.
The big test came from a deep lofted clearance from keeper John Ruddy. Not only was Jimenez up for the aerial challenge, he won it – so removing a big psychological barrier. He almost spiced his return with a goal, a 25 yard freekick deflected on to the bar, before making way for substitute Patrick Cutrone.
Ruddy said: “It’s surreal to see how well he has done in a short space of time. He has been back training now for a few months, but to see him out on the pitch was brilliant.
“Fair play to the Crewe fans, they gave him a good reception.”
Chris Long tapped in Crewe’s winner from close range after being set up by Charlie Kirk. Somehow it didn’t matter. The main man was back.
Nuno’s first game in charge of Tottenham ended in a 1-1 draw with Leyton Orient. Eric Dier captained a Spurs side, including Dele Alli, Harry Winks and Joe Hart, that were pegged back by the League Two side.
Elsewhere, Eddie Nketiah’s late leveller earned Arsenal a 2-2 draw with Rangers.
Patrick Vieira launched his managerial career with Crystal Palace by earning a win against Walsall following Wilf Zaha’s strike.