Classy Cunha easing Wolves' attacking worries

Matheus Cunha is starting to look like the real deal for Wolves.

After a slightly underwhelming loan spell at Molineux last season, the Brazil international has hit new heights since his move was made permanent over the summer.

Wolves are reportedly on the lookout for a new striker before the end of January — but Cunha's form has eased the pressure to bring in a goalscorer.

We take a look at his excellent recent performances ahead of their FA Cup clash with old foes West Brom.

Main man

With seven goals and six assists in all competitions this term, Cunha has quickly become one of Wolves' key players.

Only Hee Chan Hwang (11 goals and three assists) has more goal contributions — and he is currently away at the Asian Cup with South Korea.

Cunha is now indispensable and his form during Hwang's absence will be crucial.

The 24-year-old could not find the net in Wolves' goalless draw with Brighton on Monday night, though the numbers suggest he is unlikely to be subdued for long.

Wolves' No12 ranks second in the Premier League for completed take-ons (44) with only Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku (45) ahead of him.

That direct dribbling makes him a nightmare for opposition defenders, as does his ability to get a shot off — he ranks sixth in the division for efforts on target (24).

Gary O'Neil's outfit have not just benefitted from Cunha's qualities on the ball, either. 

He has also pressed from the front this season with just five players winning more possessions in the attacking third than the Brazilian (19).

More to come

O'Neil has heaped praise on Cunha, who has operated both as an attacking midfielder and a striker this campaign.

Speaking to Sky Sports last month, the Wolves boss said: "Cunha is an incredible guy with a big heart who wants to do his best for the team.

"If you look at his work rate and the numbers he produces, he works his socks off. It is just then me trying to get him to direct that in the right way."

Despite his commendable goal return, O'Neil insisted Cunha still has room for improvement.

He added: "You need to understand where he [Cunha] is at the moment and what he can best do for the team.

"That is on me to maximise what he is. We are not there yet but I am sure we will get there."

Making a mark

There is plenty of time for Cunha to develop further given this is his first full season in the Premier League.

And if his impressive performances of late continue, Wolves may find they are eventually having to ward off interest from other clubs.

For now, Cunha appears to be in the right place to make further progress.

He said in October: "Personally, I want to accomplish something big but, of course, putting my personal objectives in service of the team because the team is the most important.

"Together, we can leave a mark in this club."

Scoring against rivals West Brom in the FA Cup today would make Cunha an even more popular figure among the Wolves faithful.