Wolves appoint Gary O'Neil as replacement for Julen Lopetegui

Wolves have appointed Gary O'Neil as their new manager following the exit of Julen Lopetegui just days before the start of the new Premier League season.

O'Neil was surprisingly sacked by Bournemouth at the end of last season despite steering the Cherries to top-flight safety but has quickly found himself another job and has signed a two-year contract.

The 40-year-old took 36 points from his 34 top-flight games in charge as Bournemouth finished the campaign in 15th place, five points clear of the relegation zone. O'Neil oversaw 10 victories, losing 18 and drawing six in what was his first managerial position.

Lopetegui, 56, took over at Molineux in November with Wolves in the bottom three but the Spaniard's impact was immediate and the Midlands club secured their top-flight status with three games to play, finishing two places and two points ahead of Bournemouth.

Sporting director Matt Hobbs said: “We’re delighted to welcome Gary to the club. He’s a highly motivated young coach with strong principles and very well thought of by everyone he has worked with, and we’re excited to see what we can achieve together at Wolves.

“Our players have shown their quality during pre-season, and I believe Gary and his team will continue to coach and improve them and will have success working with this group.

Gary O'Neil has been appointed as our new head coach.Welcome to the club, Gary