McCarthy: The only way is up for Wolves

Defiant boss Mick McCarthy today insisted beleaguered Wolves will win their Premier League survival battle, despite plunging to the bottom of the table.

But McCarthy admitted his side were "not good enough" as they lost 2-1 to relegation rivals Wigan.

"The defending for both goals was really poor and we're not good enough, tough enough or experienced enough that we can come back from two goals down early on," said the manager.

And Wolves barely need reminding that the only team in the 19-year history of the Premier League to stay up after being bottom at Christmas was Albion in 2005.

The latest setback was greeted by boos at half-time and full-time, as well as a mass walkout before substitute Steven Fletcher provided what turned out to be false hope with an 87th-minute consolation.

But McCarthy believes there is still time to turn things around.

"My confidence doesn't get knocked as easily now and I'm not going to let one performance change it," he said.

"There's only one way left for us to go now with where we are and the games we've got remaining and that is up."