Nuno Espirito Santo pleased with Daniel Podence’s full debut for Wolves

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Nuno Espirito Santo has praised Daniel Podence after the star made his full debut against Espanyol in the Europa League.

The £17 million January signing from Olympiacos (BBC Sport) was selected to play up top with Adama Traore, with Raul Jimenez left on the bench.

Podence was lively at the RCDE Stadium, and supplied a good cross for Matt Doherty to score a tap in.

Speaking after the 3-2 defeat, Espirito Santo said of the livewire (official website): “It’s good. He came in the transfer window, he’s adapting, he’s knowing his teammates better, he’s learning the shape, but he’s a versatile player – he can play wide, he can play inside; but he has talent and I think he did well, but he can improve.”

Podence will be hoping to make the most of his opportunities at Molineux, as several players in his position are in fine form at the moment.

Jimenez’s place in the team is guaranteed, while Traore has been excellent this season.

Diogo Jota is now beginning to find form, especially in the Europa League, and young Pedro Neto is also looking lively.

TBR’s view – Podence to give Nuno a headache?

The early signs are good regarding Podence, who looks a real threat.

Not only does he have pace in abundance and decent ball protection ability, but technically he seems strong as well.

With everyone else playing well, Podence’s offerings could really give Espirito Santo a big headache going forwards – which is something every manager wants.

The 24-year-old may return to the bench for this weekend’s game against Tottenham Hotspur, so it’ll be important for him to make the most of any chance he gets coming off the bench.