Wolves: International break aids Mick McCarthy's 'unlucky seven'

Oct 6 2009 by Lisa Smith, Birmingham Mail

WOLVES boss Mick McCarthy can at least thank his lucky stars the international break will allow his “unlucky seven” to continue on the road back from injury.

McCarthy has a string of top players out injured but hopes some will use tomorrow night’s high-profile reserve game against Villa as a stepping stone towards their recovery.

Right-back Richard Stearman will play no part nor will left-back Stephen Ward but striker Chris Iwelumo will play some part on his way back after six months on the sidelines following a knee injury and then a broken foot.

The striker, who scored 16 goals last season, could pair up with Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, who is just back from a hamstring strain and who was the Championship’s Golden Boot winner with 25 goals last term.

McCarthy said: “Iwelumo will play. Chris is training okay and while he is not right yet, he needs game time.

“I’m not sure if he’ll be ready for our next game at Everton.