Vitor Pereira singles out what Emmanuel Agbadou found 'not easy' against Bristol City
Wolves manager Vitor Pereira stands by his decision of fielding a strong squad in the FA Cup to secure a win over Bristol City – a choice he believes benefits their Premier League aspirations.
Goals from Rayan Ait-Nouri and Rodrigo Gomes crowned a solid start for Wolves at Ashton Gate, leading to a 2-1 victory in the third-round clash.
Despite Scott Twine's stunning free-kick just before the break, the visitors from Molineux held on to earn their spot in the fourth-round draw. After experiencing the FA Cup for the first time, Pereira shared, "It’s a special competition, tradition.
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"Our priority is the league for sure. But because we don’t have time for training, and I want to increase some behaviours, it’s important to use the games to do it. We’ll have time to recover for the next game."
Currently just above the relegation line based on goal difference, Wolves are looking ahead to their upcoming fixture against Newcastle on Wednesday.
Despite the pressure, Pereira opted for only three alterations compared to their previous match with Nottingham Forest. New recruit, Ivory Coast defender Emmanuel Agbadou made his debut after his recent transfer from Reims.
Reflecting on the competitiveness of the FA Cup, Pereira stated: "What I realise is this game is very difficult. If we come here playing with our suit we have the quality to win."
"But we must come here not just to enjoy. We must show the right mentality because they have the level, intensity and physicality (to match us). We started strong because if they get the confidence they will win the game. The Championship has quality and the games are very difficult."
Pereira also praised Agbadou: "He was consistent. To play on the left side and not be left footed is not easy," he said.
"He played well in my opinion. He realised today that the game never stops. Fast free-kicks, fast throw-ins and when the goalkeeper starts to play. The ball never stops. Players don't have the time to recover or to breathe a little bit. He realised today, the speed of the game is fast every time."
