Bruno Lage: Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho, have been an integral part of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ success in the top flight. However, the former who is currently the team’s vice captain is being linked with several top clubs throughout Europe. While the latter’s contract with the club is set to expire at the end of this season.
With both of their futures uncertain, the club’s manager Bruno Lage has reacted about their potential exit from the Molineux.
Bruno Lage admits difficulty following the departure of the duo
“It would be hard,” Lage said. “If we miss one, it’s hard, if we miss two, it’s hard. They have been playing for the last three years and they know the role – Ruben is the first midfielder, Joao is the second midfielder. When I play with three, Leander (Dendoncker) also does the job.
“It’s hard to find a player like Ruben, it’s hard to find a player like Joao, and to find two who know each other like they do. I am very happy, also with Leander – I like to mention Leander when I talk about the midfielders because Leander is a fantastic guy and player, every time I need him he is ready. He is one of the best professionals that we have.
“(Neves and Moutinho) have returned to what they did in the past because this way of playing has allowed them to. We need good players, but players need a way to play to get the best out of them. I am very happy working with these midfielders because they understand the game and the strategy always starts from them.
“I think everyone here wants Joao (to stay), now it’s a question of numbers, and that’s not about me,” Lage added. “For the team, and also to set an example to the youngsters. The culture comes in training and good examples, not just from the manager. These guys are important – Joao, (Conor) Coady, Leander, Raul (Jimenez), (Romain) Saiss and John Ruddy. These players are good examples that the kids should see and observe.”
