TheCable

Wolverhampton Warriors coach, Kenny Jackett, has told goalkeeper Carl Ikeme to fight and regain his place in the team because Wolves have no intention of selling him.  

The 29-year-old lost his place to Arsenal on loan keeper Emiliano Martinez who has started the last five league games.

But Jackett has played down fears the goalkeeper’s international ambitions might tempt him away from Molineux.

“Carl is a very good goalkeeper but at the moment we are looking to build and add if we can. We are not looking to decrease the club,” he said.

“From us it is a case of head down, work for the club, work for Wolves and do our best to make sure the club is successful. Does he have to wait for his opportunity?

“Yes – and do well enough in training to keep the pressure on the other player, that is what football is all about.

“Look at our midfield situation where suddenly Conor Coady gets a three-game suspension and opens the way for another partnership.

“That can happen at any time and you have to be ready and make sure when the opportunity comes, you are the one who gets selected and takes it.”

Ikeme is due to return to training this week after his latest stint away with Nigeria, having made his debut for the Super Eagles against Tanzania in September.

He was also in goal in the friendlies against DR Congo and Cameroon as he looks to establish himself as Nigeria’s first-choice keeper following the retirement of long-time number one Vincent Enyeama.