Wolves’ Carabao Cup win over Everton on Tuesday night not only secured a fourth-round clash with Chelsea, it also reignited debate over Vitor Pereira’s team selections. Vitor Pereira mistake with Wolves star – centres on Matt Doherty, who rolled back the years with a strong display at right-back after being left out against Leeds United.
The 3-1 defeat to Leeds had highlighted Wolves’ defensive frailties, with Emmanuel Agbadou and Toti Gomes struggling badly. Pereira responded by shaking things up for the Everton tie, bringing in Santiago Bueno and shifting Ladislav Krejci back from midfield. But it was Doherty’s return to the XI, in a back four rather than the usual back three, that caught the eye.
Former Wolves defender Andy Thompson, analysing the game on Matchday Live Extra, said Doherty’s omission against Leeds was a serious error. His view was echoed by Lee Naylor, who suggested Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s decisive goal might have been prevented had Doherty been on the pitch.
Andy Thompson: Doherty’s absence was a mistake
“He’s still a good player. A lot of experience, he’s played at the highest level. He’s done well for this club. But he still knows how to play. He still knows how to defend and do things right and in the right areas. He’s got that quality, he’s got that feel about the way he plays – I just think that him not being in the side and us not using him at the weekend was a big mistake.” — Andy Thompson, Matchday Live Extra
Thompson highlighted Doherty’s decision-making and professionalism, particularly his knack for relieving pressure with sensible clearances and passes into advanced areas. For a Wolves side lacking leaders, his know-how was deemed invaluable.
Doherty shows he still has plenty to offer
At 33, Doherty is in the twilight of his career, but his performance against Everton underlined his continued value. His defensive solidity, coupled with his leadership qualities, brought stability to a Wolves backline that has looked fragile for much of the season.
Pereira’s decision to omit him against Leeds now appears even stranger. In a squad light on experience, Doherty is one of the few figures capable of steadying the ship when pressure builds. Whether starting or on the bench, his influence could prove crucial in navigating tough stretches of the season.
Wolves Carabao Cup run and defensive revival
The victory over Everton extended Wolves’ remarkable Carabao Cup home record to seven straight wins. With Chelsea visiting Molineux in the fourth round, optimism is building that Pereira’s men could make a deep run in the competition. Much will depend on whether the manager keeps faith with the experienced figures who steadied the defence midweek.
Analyst Verdict – John William
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Pereira risks undermining his own project if he sidelines experienced players like Doherty:
“Wolves are a young, transitional squad. Leaders like Doherty bring not only defensive quality but also composure in moments of pressure. Pereira’s choice to leave him out against Leeds was puzzling, especially given the defensive collapse that followed. If Wolves are to progress in the cup and stabilise in the league, Doherty has to remain part of the equation.”
William added that keeping experienced heads close to the first team is as much about culture as performance: “You don’t just drop leaders; you keep them integrated.”
Key Insights
- Vitor Pereira criticised for leaving Matt Doherty out against Leeds.
- Andy Thompson says Doherty still has “quality” and leadership Wolves need.
- Doherty impressed at right-back in Carabao Cup win vs Everton.
- Wolves have now won seven straight home ties in the competition.
- Chelsea await Wolves in the Carabao Cup fourth round.
What’s Next for Wolves and Doherty?
Wolves’ immediate challenge is stabilising their Premier League form, with defensive solidity key. Pereira must decide whether to stick with the back four that worked against Everton or revert to his preferred system.
For Doherty, the path forward is clear: he still has a big role to play. Whether starting or providing depth, his professionalism and leadership will be crucial as Wolves navigate a tough autumn schedule that includes league clashes and the Carabao Cup tie against Chelsea.
👉 Should Matt Doherty become a regular starter again for Wolves, or is Pereira right to use him sparingly?
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