Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves has withdrawn from international duty with Portugal because of injury, according to journalist Tim Spiers.
The 24-year-old has enjoyed an excellent season for Wanderers, finding his best form again after a drop-off in 2020/21 and being hailed as “amazing” by team-mate Jose Sa. Indeed, the 24-year-old is their second-best performer to have started more than 15 league games this season (per WhoScored).
Unfortunately, Neves was injured in last Friday’s crazy 3-2 defeat at home to Leeds United, leaving the pitch prematurely with a knee problem.
He was due to represent Portugal in their crucial upcoming World Cup play-off against Turkey, but the picture has now changed.
Taking to Twitter, Spiers confirmed that Neves has withdrawn from his country’s squad because of his injury, with ex-Wolves player Vitinha taking his place
The journalist revealed: “Ruben Neves has withdrawn from the Portugal squad due to the knee injury he suffered against Leeds on Friday. Former Wolves loanee Vitinha replaces him in the squad, his first senior call-up.”
This is a massive blow for Neves, who will no doubt have wanted to play a big role in Portugal potentially qualifying for the World Cup to be held later this year.
It is also a major setback for his country, with the Wolves star in sparkling form, dictating matches in midfield and chipping in with six goal contributions (four goals and two assists) in the Premier League this season.
The hope is that Neves is ready to return to action for Wolves at home to Aston Villa on April 2 – if not, Bruno Lage’s side will be immediately weakened in their ailing quest for European football.
In other news, one Wolves player is under fire after his performance against Leeds.
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