Edwards demands complete performance as Wolves head to Old Trafford

Wolves head coach Rob Edwards has called for a “complete, consistent performance” as his side prepare to close out 2025 with a daunting trip to Old Trafford.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers travel to face Manchester United on Tuesday, just days after showing signs of encouragement in the second half of their defeat away to Liverpool.

Edwards was encouraged by the response at Anfield after tweaking his system at half-time, with Wolves pushing the reigning champions and forcing them to hold on late. However, he is adamant that flashes of quality are no longer enough.

Reflecting on Wolves’ previous meeting with United and the recent Liverpool game, Edwards stressed the importance of learning quickly at the top level.

“That was a night that we were able to learn a lot about ourselves,” he said of the earlier United clash. “We made some mistakes that sped their attacks up and sped the game up for them… when they've got confidence, they open you up too many times.”

With suspensions and injuries limiting his options — including the absence of André through suspension — Edwards acknowledged the challenge of facing Anfield and Old Trafford in quick succession, but believes lessons can still be applied.

“It’s quite a tough four days, Anfield and Old Trafford, but we’ll certainly be able to learn bits from that game,” he added.

Six weeks into his tenure, Edwards has seen enough to know Wolves can compete — but only in spells.

“We can compete, but there's been moments in games where we've shot ourselves in the foot,” he admitted. “The players have shown they're capable in moments in games, but we haven't seen it for a complete game, probably other than maybe Villa.”

While Wolves created more chances against Liverpool than they did in that win over Aston Villa, Edwards insists consistency across the full 90 minutes is now non-negotiable.

“You get punished at this level, as we know, and we're getting punished for mistakes,” he said.

Edwards was particularly candid about the mentality he is trying to change at Molineux.

“It’s been a long period of time for them. I've been here six weeks, and I'm fed up of it,” he said. “We've got to latch on to that second half performance, because I don't want to be coming into dressing rooms at the end of games and saying that's the level, but we're taking nothing from it.”

The Wolves boss believes adding a ruthless edge is essential if performances are to start translating into points.

The suspension of André is a blow, with Edwards singling out the midfielder’s second-half display at Anfield for praise.

“I thought second half he was excellent. That's his level,” Edwards said. “He was aggressive, he was brave, and he will be a big miss for us.”

Edwards also highlighted the importance of discipline, stressing he wants commitment and emotion — but without needless bookings.

There was more positive news in defence, with Santiago Bueno earning praise after a run of strong performances.

“A really good couple of performances from Santi,” Edwards said. “He's had to be patient, but he's certainly playing really well, and I’ve been really pleased with him.”

Wolves head to Old Trafford on Tuesday knowing a full 90-minute performance is required if they are to take anything from the match. For Edwards, the challenge is clear: turn encouraging halves into complete displays — and finally start changing results.

Can Wolves deliver the complete performance Rob Edwards is demanding at Old Trafford?