Wolverhampton Wanderers will be without striker Raul Jimenez for Sunday's Black Country derby against West Bromwich Albion. The 35-year-old Mexico international suffered a left knee injury during his side's Carabao Cup defeat to Everton on Wednesday.
Wolves manager Cesar Peixoto confirmed the news ahead of the key Championship clash at Molineux. "Raul has injured his knee," Peixoto said. "It is not too bad. But we are all frustrated because he is a key player for us." The forward is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks, using the upcoming international break to aid his recovery.
Boost for Baggies
Jimenez's absence is a significant blow for Wolves and a potential advantage for West Brom. The striker has scored three goals since returning to Molineux in the summer, including a winner against Sheffield United. He has never featured in a Black Country derby, having missed the 2020-21 meetings after suffering a fractured skull. Wolves have not won a home league derby against West Brom since May 2011.
West Brom enter the fixture sitting fourth in the Championship table with 14 points from seven games, as seen in the latest standings. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws and one defeat from their last five outings. The Baggies are also dealing with their own injury concerns, with winger Mikey Johnston and defender Nolan Galves both ruled out, adding to the list on our injuries page. However, winger Brayann Pereira is available again after serving a suspension.
The derby context
The stage is set for a key early-season encounter. Wolves currently sit seventh, three points behind West Brom but with a game in hand. Carlos Corberan's side will look to capitalise on their opponent's missing firepower and extend their positive start to the campaign.
West Brom's top scorer this season is J. Morgan with three goals, and the team will need contributions across the pitch in a hostile away environment. The derby kicks off at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday, with both sides aware of the local bragging rights and valuable league points at stake. The Baggies' last result was a 1-1 home draw with Queens Park Rangers.
