RICHARD Stearman has won the backing of Mick McCarthy for some sensational performances at the heart of the Wolves defence.

And the Molineux boss admits he simply cannot grant Jody Craddock – a key performer in the early part of the season – a passage back into his team.

“Stearman has been very, very good,” said McCarthy.

“He has improved no end this year, he really has. He’s been terrific.”

McCarthy says the key to Stearman’s improvement is down to hard work.

“He has concentrated on his defending.

“He can handle the ball, Stears. He can play. We just had to get him to defend. Defend first then all the other stuff comes with it.

“I think he has made a real effort at it as well. He’s been very good and I think he has had a very good season so far.”

McCarthy says Stearman has got to grips with the defensive side of the game.