Trying to decide which forum has the more deludededly optimistic, or pant-wettingly pessimistic fans.
Shockingly, the truth probably lies nearer the middle.
I’m genuinely intrigued by some of the ‘they’re still a fizzy pop league team, let’s smash them’ comments.
We’re not Real Madrid no, but there’s never been a promoted team with as many champions and Europa league appearances in it as Wolves now, plus the manager.
(Look what Benitez has done at Newcastle, with a budget of buttons and pocket fluff).
I do get it though. I was there for that Saturday lunchtime game a few years ago where the rift in quality was obvious, and you’d tonked 3 past us in the first half.
That was a typical, newly promoted, backs against the wall home and away kind of team.
You’ll see plenty of that out of Cardiff all season.
There’s plenty in here terrified by your CB pairing and DM options, so I’m not sure how that tallies with ‘we’ll show them the difference in quality’.
For balance, I am a bit worried about our midfield.
Moutinho and Neves were positionally poor in the first half against Villarreal, letting far too many incisive balls through.
Coady also didn’t look anywhere near as switched on as through last season, which isn’t helpful for a sweeper.
Nuno stuck a rocket up arses at halftime though, and things improved considerably.
I think things may well go well for you boys later in the season.
Lot of great signings, a highly rated manager, if he can get it to stick I have no doubt you’ll finish above us in the league over the long haul.
However, for this game, you have a team still trying to learn the new system, with poor or ageing defenders not suited at all to the high line; playing against a settled team, in a settled system, full of youth, pace, and confidence.
I would be astounded if we walk away from Goodison with any points, when Silva has had plenty of time to make it happen.
Wolves win today however, is hard to look past.