Wolverhampton Wanderers manager, Vitor Pereira, expressed satisfaction with the performance of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare despite the team’s narrow 1-0 loss to Newcastle United.
The defeat came at St. James’ Park on Saturday, where Wolves struggled to find their rhythm against a resilient Newcastle side.
Arokodare, who recently completed his move to Wolves, made his Premier League debut in the match.
The 24-year-old striker was thrust straight into the starting line-up, a decision that showed Pereira’s confidence in the Nigerian forward’s potential despite his limited time with the squad.
Remarkably, Arokodare had only one training session with Wolves prior to kickoff.
Nevertheless, Pereira trusted him to lead the line, highlighting the manager’s willingness to integrate new signings quickly.
The striker faced a tough challenge, trying to adapt to the pace and physicality of England’s top-flight football in such a short span.
During the game, Arokodare was on the pitch for 66 minutes before being substituted for Jhon Arias.
While he did not manage to influence the scoreboard, his movement and work rate were noticeable, and he provided some moments of promise that hinted at what Wolves might gain from his presence in the future.
Despite the limited impact, Pereira praised the striker for his effort. “He (Arokodare) did well, of course he is not in the physical condition to do better,” the Wolves boss told the club’s official website, signaling patience as the player adjusts to the demands of the Premier League.
Fans will be eager to see Arokodare get more opportunities as he continues to build fitness and familiarity with his new teammates.
Wolves hope that with time, the Super Eagles striker can become a key figure in their attacking line-up and contribute to the club’s push in the league.
