Wolves news: Opinion – Fulham mission cannot end in another London failure

Gary O’Neil spoke for just over half an hour at Compton on Friday, fielding questions on momentum, emulating Saturday’s hosts Fulham and their recent success.

None were on his position at Wolves – it would have been futile as it has been discussed and there is nothing else for the manager to say.

Nothing has changed at Molineux. In an ideal world, they do not want to make a change – especially following the show of faith of a new contract in August.

O’Neil played down the importance of the next six games, insisting he did not know the fixture list after the visit of Bournemouth next weekend, but is it not a stretch to suggest they are season-defining.

Everton, West Ham, Ipswich and Leicester come immediately after the trip to Craven Cottage and the game against the Cherries.

All are within reach and points must be taken if Wolves are going to head into the New Year with a realistic prospect of survival.

First, though, comes Fulham on Saturday with Wolves second bottom in the Premier League.

The danger of falling into a trap is obvious and it happened at Brentford in October, when Wolves still came unstuck even though playing a side not expected to challenge for the top four after their tough opening fixtures.

Fulham and Bournemouth may not be in the title race but the Cottagers are fifth in the form table over the past 10 games, while the Cherries are second if it is reduced to the past six matches.

O’Neil drilled his players to ensure the mistakes at Brentford did not happen again and, after a heartbreaking loss to Manchester City, they are unbeaten in three.

That run needs to extend. Wolves have no room for manoeuvre and, regardless whether O’Neil knows the fixtures or not, results in the next month are likely to decide whether he has a future at Molineux.