Pedro Neto will not play in Monday’s match against Fulham, but he is getting close to returning for Wolves.

The Portugal international suffered a hamstring injury during last month’s draw with Newcastle after having a stellar start to the season with seven assists in 10 Premier League appearances. There were concerns that Neto might not return to the field in 2023, but even though he’s not quite ready, it won’t be long

At a press conference, Wolves manager Gary O’Neil informed reporters, “Pedro won’t make Monday.” He still has some work ahead of him. Pedro will spend some more time with the fitness and physiotherapists.

“He won’t be accessible on Monday; there’s no precise time frame. I hope it takes weeks. It’s challenging because you have to follow the results of tests, scans, and additional check-ups, and you can’t control how quickly he heals—yet he heals quite well.”

“He’s probably ahead of where they would have wanted him to be at this point. We’re pleased with the progress he’s made, but with the nature of the injury, we need to make sure everything’s ticked off properly before he’s back with the group.”

Wolves do have other injury concerns ahead of their journey down to London, but the Monday night game should ensure O’Neil has a largely fully-fit squad to select from. Craig Dawson won’t be playing due to suspension after getting his fifth yellow card of the season in the last-minute win over Tottenham.

Joseph Hodge (shoulder) and Nathan Fraser (quad) are still out of action, but Matt Doherty and Mario Lemina are expected to recover from their injuries. O’Neil said: “I think everyone came back OK. Nathan Fraser’s still out. Mario rolled his ankle on international duty, but should be fine.”

“Matt Doherty has a tight hamstring but will be fine. Hugo Bueno is back involved, as he was just before, he’s doing well. Hodgey is doing well, he’s back on the grass, but it comes a bit too quick for him. We’re pretty much as we were as long as nothing happens the next couple of days.”