Ruben Neves sends message after Wolves confirm transfer decision

Wolverhampton Wanderers have officially confirmed the departure of veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy.

Ruddy starred in the promotion-winning season in 2017/18 and was one of three Wolves players named in the PFA Championship team of the year, alongside Willy Boly and Ruben Neves. Ruddy, who joined Wolves on a free transfer from Norwich City, won the Golden Glove award that season for being the best second tier goalkeeper.

He was replaced between the sticks by Rui Patrcio in the Premier League though, and Jose Sa arrived to succeed his compatriot as Wolves number one last summer. Ruddy featured in the club’s final two Premier League games, in addition to four cup outings earlier in the season.

Bruno Lage wanted to keep Ruddy at Wolves, but the club’s hierarchy have decided to release the goalkeeper at the end of his contract. Wolves will now decide whether to promote Matija Sarkic to the role of number two goalkeeper, or sign a new custodian to play understudy to Sa.

Numerous Wolves players have reacted to the news of Ruddy’s departure, and talismanic midfielder Neves has now paid tribute. Neves said: “What a guy. Thank you for everything my friend. You deserve the best.”

Neves’ own future at Molineux is in doubt after the Portuguese admitted he might have played his last game for the club at Anfield on Sunday. Neves is attracting interest from Barcelona, while Manchester United and Arsenal are also keen to sign him in the summer transfer window.