With their side winless in the Premier League so far this season, former Wolves player Rob Edwards has been named the new Wolves manager after the dismissal of Vitor Pereira, in a bid to turn the side’s fortunes around. It appears to be a huge task for whoever takes the role, but will Rob Edwards be up to the challenge?
Former Wolves Player Rob Edwards: Managerial and Playing Career So Far
Throughout his playing career, young manager Rob Edwards played at various clubs throughout the first division and the Championship, accumulating a total of 213 appearances.
The former Wolves player was mostly successful in his time at Molineux, where Rob Edwards was able to accumulate 100 of his 213 appearances in four years with the club. Edwards did have to overcome obstacles during his time with the club, including a long-term ankle injury. However, many Wolves fans look back on his spell with fond memories, and Rob Edwards appears to have a connection to the side, contributing to his return.
As a manager, Rob Edwards had short spells with Forest Green and Watford, before his notable spells with Luton Town and Middlesbrough. Many will remember his recent spell at Luton and the feats he achieved with the side.
Under the guise of Rob Edwards, Luton Town were able to spend an unexpected, yet wholly memorable season in the Premier League. The side finished 18th. However, they were able to gain the admiration of fans up and down the country with their determination and spirit.
Throughout his time as Luton manager, Rob Edwards was also praised for the impeccable manner in which he conducted himself, following incidents where Tom Lockyer collapsed against Coventry City and Bournemouth.
Rob Edwards has only been at Middlesbrough for a short period however, and leaves the side to become the new Wolves manager, with the team challenging for the top position in the Championship.
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Rob Edwards as New Wolves Manager: A Good Fit For The Role?
Although it is easy to praise Rob Edwards, who often ensures his teams are organised and physical, playing football in an attacking manner, some may argue that accepting the role of new Wolves manager is a step too far for the former Wolves player.
Wolves sit bottom of the Premier League on two points following Vitor Pereira’s departure, with a squad that wholly lacks Premier League experience, as well as an identity on the pitch. Therefore, the role of the new Wolves manager is a tough one, and will require a vast improvement, as well as January investment, to change the side’s fortunes.
Therefore, some may argue that the role should be available to a coach who has more experience, indicating that former Wolves player Rob Edwards’ managerial career may be further boosted by staying at Middlesbrough and continuing to build a project.
However, Edwards cares about the club in a manner that other managers may not due to his connection with the side. Furthermore, Edwards is often praised as a good “man-manager”, which may work in his favour.
Conclusion
Former Wolves player Rob Edwards will be under no illusion about the complexities of the new role that he has accepted. The role of the new Wolves manager is a role that may reap no rewards, or may take a long while, and some changes to reap such rewards.
However, there are many positive aspects of Rob Edwards and his coaching style, and his connection with the club should prove to be fruitful as he undergoes his tenure in charge.
Although some may argue that a more experienced manager would have been better suited for the role, and that Edwards himself should have stayed at Middlesbrough, many Wolves fans will be hoping the former Wolves player provides a glimmer of hope in their season.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / PRiME Media Images
Recording Date: 06.01.2025
