Helder Costa: Wolves have big game players

And the 24-year-old hailed the strength of the pack with team-mates ‘waiting in the wings’ for a starting position.

Wolves made a number of key signings this summer to reinforce their Championship-winning squad.

Combined with their squad depth, Costa thinks Wolves will fair well in their first season back in England’s top flight for six years.

He said: “With the players that we have in the team, they have played on big stages and they’re used to it. I think we shouldn’t have a problem with it this season. I am also aware that every one of my team-mates that is out could enter the line-up at any moment and will do things well.

“This rotation means we’ve always got to be at our best and I want to continue like that, playing at my highest level. Of course, we’ve always got to be at our best.

“I don’t see that as a competition but the fact that a player has come which has improved the quality in our team. We know that if things aren’t going our way, we’ve always got another thing up our sleeve.”

Costa has started all six games for Wolves this season and is delighted to be playing on the big stage. But the winger revealed his struggle last season getting back into Nuno Espirito Santo’s starting line-up after suffering an injury.

He said: “Last year, I only played 10 games and there were players in front of me in my position.

“It was very difficult for me to enter the squad and it took a long time for me to get fit. I didn’t want that to happen again.

“I was a bit sad because of the injury I had. But the manager said he trusted me. The players in my position were playing well. (Ivan) Cavaleiro and (Diogo) Jota were playing well and I had to accept it, work my hardest and wait for my opportunity.

“I did that and it all worked out in the end.”

Costa was the first of Wolves’ new Portuguese contingent to arrive at the club when signing in 2016. And he insists he feels ‘at home’ at Wolves, but not just because of the club’s Portuguese influence.

“Also they way that the English people have welcomed me and treated me,” he said. “I think it’s important for a player that when someone arrives that they feel cared for and welcomed and to feel comfortable.

“I also hope to remain in the hearts of the fans here too. We can’t be grateful enough for their support, home and away, we really appreciate it.”