Wolverhampton: preparing for an immediate Championship comeback

Wolverhampton are entering a new chapter after a difficult previous season ended with relegation from the Premier League. With their Championship opener just around the corner on August 14, the Wolves are focused on securing a swift return to England’s top flight.

During their preseason schedule, the club played four warm-up matches, recording three victories and one defeat. The coaching staff has used these fixtures to rebuild confidence, test tactical options, and prepare the squad for the challenges of life in the second tier.

Port Vale: rebuilding after relegation with a perfect preseason record

Port Vale also experienced a frustrating campaign last term, finishing close to the bottom of the League One standings and collecting only 42 points from 46 matches. As a result, they dropped into League Two and now begin their fight to return to the third tier as quickly as possible.

The summer preparations have provided plenty of encouragement, with Port Vale winning all four of their preseason friendlies. The team enters the new season with renewed confidence and the clear ambition of challenging for promotion.

Additional context

The new EFL Cup campaign will begin earlier than usual this season, becoming the first major competitive tournament of the English football calendar before the Championship, League One, and League Two seasons officially get underway. This earlier start adds extra significance to the opening-round fixtures, with clubs eager to make a strong first impression.

Match facts & head-to-head

Wolverhampton have won their last two matches.

Port Vale enter the game on a run of four consecutive victories.

Wolves have scored in six straight matches, while Port Vale have found the net in their last four games.

The most recent meeting between the two sides took place in 2016, ending in a 0-0 draw.

Probable lineups

Wolverhampton: Bentley; Trippier, Mosquera, T. Gomes, H. Bueno; Andre, Munetsi; R. Gomes, Lopez, Mane; Armstrong.

Port Vale: Smith; Gabriel, Montsma, Humphreys, Headley; Walters, Hall, Byers; Watters, Faal, Gordon.