The Old Gold make the long journey south to the American Express Stadium, where Gary O’Neil’s men will be eager to progress further in England’s second most senior cup competition.
Wolves need a response after giving up a 1-0 lead and losing 2-1 to Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday, but it’s unlikely to come against Brighton as O’Neil has already admitted he’s set to rotate heavily.
Wanderers are prioritising the trip to local rivals Aston Villa on Saturday and cannot afford to pick up any more injuries to key players. Toti Gomes and Rayan Ait-Nouri were doubtful to face Brighton as it was, whereas the likes of Craig Dawson and Yerson Mosquera are in need of a rest.
Wolves predicted XI vs Brighton
Expecting wholesale changes, here’s the lineup we reckon O’Neil will name at the Amex.
GK – Jose Sa
The Portuguese has become a backup since Sam Johnstone’s arrival but he’s bound to be handed some minutes in the cup fixtures.
RB – Pedro Lima
The Brazilian played well in the previous round against Burnley, notching an assist. He definitely deserves another opportunity.
CB – Santiago Bueno
Bueno is probably in line to play as Toti is ruled out and Dawson needs a rest ahead of Villa. The Uruguayan might be called upon more often with injuries racking up.
CB – Alfie Pond
O’Neil hinted on Sunday that a young central defender will start, so we reckon Pond could get the nod. O’Neil also said Yerson Mosquera could do with a game off.
LB – Matt Doherty
Doherty made a huge error off the bench against Newcastle, allowing Harvey Barnes inside for the winner, but he’ll probably start with Rayan Ait-Nouri an injury doubt.
CM – Luke Cundle
Cundle looked set for a loan move away in the summer but he’s remained with Wolves. He should get some cup minutes as a result.
CM – Tommy Doyle
Doyle has been resorted to the bench for much of this campaign so far, but this could be a good chance to start with several other midfielders in need of a rest.
CAM – Pablo Sarabia
Sarabia, who hasn’t played as often as he would’ve hoped, is another on the fringes of the starting lineup most weeks.
RW – Rodrigo Gomes
Gomes has been a substitute for the past few matches despite seriously impressing in pre-season. He’ll be keen to force his way into the starting XI more regularly.
LW – Carlos Forbs
The deadline day signing looks in line for his full debut after a brief bench cameo against Newcastle. It’s time to see what the winger can do.
ST – Goncalo Guedes
Guedes scored both goals as Wolves beat Burnley in the second round. O’Neil will want a repeat from the attacker at the Amex.
