Solbakken takes reins at Molineux

Stale Solbakken is relishing the chance to revive Wolves’ fortunes after being appointed as their new manager, replacing the sacked Mick McCarthy and interim manager Terry Connor.

Solbakken, 44, previously coach at FC Copenhagen and Cologne, and a former Wimbledon player said: “It’s an exciting opportunity to manage a great club and I can’t wait to get started.”

Solbakken, a former Norway international, steered Copenhagen to a shock win over Manchester United six years ago as well as holding Barcelona to a 1-1 draw in 2010, but the Championship will be a new experience.

Club owner Steve Morgan has already promised funds will be made available to try to restore Wolves to the top flight at the first attempt. But Solbakken faces a fight to hold on to top scorer Steven Fletcher, fellow striker Kevin Doyle and England winger Matt Jarvis.

Several players are in the dark about Solbakken’s pedigree. Central defender Roger Johnson said: “I don’t know who the guy is. It is out of the blue.”